Introduction to Virtual Reality in Education
Throughout time, humans have used visual-based methods to assist them remember information – from early cave drawings to modern-day video. Virtual Reality (VR) will not be only the subsequent logical step but a step in the proper direction: research suggests we retain more information and might higher apply what we’ve learned after participating in virtual reality exercises.
The Science Behind Virtual Reality Learning
Researchers on the University of Maryland conducted one among the primary in-depth analyses on whether people learn higher through immersive virtual environments, versus more traditional platforms like a pc or tablet. For the study, the UMD researchers recruited 40 volunteers—mostly UMD students unfamiliar with virtual reality. The researchers split the participants into two groups: one viewed information first via a VR head-mounted display after which on a desktop; the opposite did the alternative. The results showed an 8.8 percent improvement overall in recall accuracy using the VR headsets – a statistically significant number based on the research team.
Building Empathy with Virtual Reality
VR will not be only a terrific medium to boost recall, but it may possibly also construct empathy which helps users understand situations, people, and events that they’d otherwise never have contact with. Considering the impact VR can have, it’s no surprise that the medium is being adopted by educators and organizations trying to add an additional dimension to classrooms all around the world.
Examples of Virtual Reality in Education
Every day, we’re seeing recent ways in which VR is facilitating learning and understanding through its unique properties. Here are only just a few examples:
Anatomy
In collaboration with HTC, Taipei Medical University established the world’s largest virtual reality anatomy classroom. The VR anatomy class is furnished with 10 sets of VIVE Pro and 3D Organon VR anatomy software. This enables individual study in addition to cooperative use of the identical VR environment and allows students to visualise lectures on anatomical structures in depth to higher understand how bodies function. According to Hung-Ming Chang, Director of the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Taipei Medical University, “With VR providing invaluable course elements, we tutors turn into navigators to students, who can truly immerse themselves within the virtually-constructed anatomy space as if piloting the perfect aircraft money should buy.”
Natural Disasters
Virtual reality is getting used as a tool to assist children develop empathy with victims of natural disasters. Because school children have relatively limited life experience, they will struggle to assume what it’s like for individuals who have experienced a natural catastrophe. ClassVR is available in, using a standalone VR headset, 360 degree videos and a student-friendly interface, children can explore the aftermath of an actual disaster.
History
There are few people who are lucky enough to travel to historical sites so as to learn first hand concerning the world’s history. This is where virtual reality is invaluable for education. Not only can it transport students back in time or to far-flung places, but it may possibly increase engagement and provides a big improvement in cost and productivity in comparison with traditional classroom-based training techniques. Created as a part of a museum exhibit, King Tut VR enables you to experience the tomb of the legendary King Tutankhamun in your cell phone.
Marine Biology
Marine environments, akin to coral reefs, are rapidly degrading. The Hydrous, a nonprofit company dedicated to educating the general public on issues regarding the ocean, has created a 360 degree film designed to take the viewer on an immersive, underwater journey to generate awareness and understanding, and ultimately make people care more about protecting our threatened oceans. Very few people get to experience a coral reef first-hand, so VR is a great tool as it may possibly transport and immerse, increasing empathy towards complex environmental issues.
Maths
Number Hunt is a fast-paced VR math shooter game for Oculus Rift, HTC Vive or Windows Mixed Reality. It’s a very fun way of learning and improving math skills through play. In the sport, you’ve got to hunt wild numbers by utilizing guns that may Add, Multiply, Subtract and Divide, plus chase the goal scores.
The World Around Us
VR is the proper medium to explore recent places without having to depart the classroom. Google Earth VR helps the world see the world. The app comes with cinematic tours and hand-picked destinations: the Amazon River, the Manhattan skyline, the Grand Canyon and more. With Google Earth VR anyone strapped right into a VR headset can zoom over the earth and explore 3D structures and topography.
Conclusion
Virtual reality is revolutionizing the best way we learn and understand information. With its ability to extend recall accuracy, construct empathy, and supply immersive experiences, VR is becoming a necessary tool in education. From anatomy to marine biology, VR is getting used in various fields to boost learning and engagement. As technology continues to advance, we will expect to see much more progressive applications of VR in education, making it an exciting time for college students and educators alike.
