Introduction to Virtual Reality Courses
Virtual reality courses have turn out to be more common lately, because of the event of recent classroom applications and the increased affordability of VR and augmented reality technology for institutions. In fact, a 2025 survey of chief technology officers found that 14 percent of respondents said their institution has made meaningful investments in virtual reality and immersive learning. This growing trend is predicted to proceed, with more schools incorporating VR into their curriculum.
Benefits of Virtual Reality within the Classroom
Past research has shown that VR activities profit student learning by making the classroom more engaging and inspiring creative and entrepreneurial considering. By providing a more immersive experience, VR can assist students connect with the fabric on a deeper level, leading to higher retention and understanding. Additionally, VR can provide students with unique perspectives and experiences which may not be possible in a conventional classroom setting.
A Case Study: Using Virtual Reality to Teach Ethics
A bunch of college at Pepperdine University in California adapted virtual reality content to show undergraduates about ethical systems in a practical and applied setting. The research study, published within the Journal of Business and Technical Communication, evaluated student learning over the course of two semesters in 2023. Students were presented with a case study related to the Malibu Community Labor Exchange, a nonprofit organization that helps day laborers and individuals without housing secure work.
How the Study Worked
Students were divided into groups and presented with three variations of the case study. Some students watched a VR video, while others watched a regular video or read a news article concerning the organization. After watching the materials, students had to attach the moral questions presented concerning the organization’s mission and staff’ conditions with a previously taught lesson about ethicists and their ethical systems, in addition to write a suggestion for the organization.
Key Findings
The study found that students who used VR had a heightened emotional response to the fabric, which clouded their ability to offer a measured evaluation. In contrast, students who watched a regular video were able to take care of a transparent view of the situation and supply a more balanced perspective. The study also found that students who watched each VR and standard videos had a more nuanced understanding of the fabric and were higher in a position to interpret the content.
The Importance of Balance
The study’s findings highlight the importance of balance when using VR within the classroom. While VR is usually a powerful tool for engaging students and promoting empathy, it may well even be distracting and overwhelming if not used fastidiously. By incorporating each standard and VR videos into the curriculum, educators can assist students develop a more balanced perspective and increase their "practical wisdom," or ability to balance cognition and emotion for ethical motion.
Conclusion
The use of virtual reality within the classroom is a growing trend that shows great promise for improving student learning and engagement. By providing a more immersive and interactive experience, VR can assist students connect with the fabric on a deeper level and develop a more nuanced understanding of complex issues. However, it is crucial to make use of VR in a balanced and intentional way, incorporating each standard and VR videos to advertise critical considering and practical wisdom. By doing so, educators can assist students develop the talents and knowledge they need to reach an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world.
