Introduction to Virtual and Augmented Reality in Education

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have change into increasingly accessible for each teachers and students. Although the technology still has its imperfections and the content available can vary in quality, the undeniable fact that many students carry smartphones and cardboard-style VR viewers are inexpensive, starting at around $15, makes it easier than ever to introduce kids to immersive VR and AR experiences within the classroom.

The Potential of VR in Fostering Empathy

In educational contexts, VR is usually seen as a tool for training, resembling with flight simulators. However, its true potential lies in its ability to foster empathy amongst students. By allowing students to walk in another person’s shoes, VR can provide a level of understanding and connection that’s difficult to realize through traditional teaching methods. Even with basic equipment like a cardboard viewer and earbuds, the extent of immersion is important, making it a robust tool for educational purposes.

Augmented Reality: Extending the Classroom

While VR brings the world into our classrooms, AR extends elements of our classrooms outward. AR apps can add layers of context and depth to traditional classroom materials, acting like a lens or filter that enhances the educational experience. Using VR or AR at the appropriate moment can create a robust and moving experience for college students.

Free Apps to Get You Started

To introduce VR and AR into your teaching, listed here are three free apps that may show you how to start:

• NYTVR – Virtual Reality Stories from the New York Times: This app offers quite a lot of VR experiences, including "The Displaced," a moving exploration of the lives of three children affected by recent wars. Other selections include an up-close take a look at the 2016 campaign trail and a documentary in regards to the language of dolphins. These will be viewed with or and not using a cardboard viewer.

Conclusion

The integration of VR and AR into education shouldn’t be nearly introducing recent technology; it’s about creating immersive, empathetic, and fascinating learning experiences. As these technologies proceed to evolve, their potential to rework the best way we teach and learn will only grow. By embracing VR and AR, educators can provide students with unique opportunities to explore the world, understand different perspectives, and interact with learning materials in entirely recent ways. Whether through the immersive experiences of VR or the contextual depth added by AR, these technologies are poised to play a major role in shaping the longer term of education.