Virtual Reality in the Classroom

Earlier in this year, I blogged about bringing games into the classroom. Now I am taking it a step further and focusing on virtual reality in the classroom.

It sounds crazy. Most of us invision VR as putting on a crazy helmet and computer gloves. Yes, that is a form of VR, but it’s not the only option. This article provides ways to incorporate forms of VR into the classroom, and why it is beneficial.

One thing I enjoyed about this article was the way it focused on various subjects, and let my teacher mind wander on endless possibilities to use VR in the classroom.

For example, videos and live communication (like Skype) can connect us to people and places all over the world. But what if we wanted to go back in time? A history teacher focuses on the Civil War or fall of the Roman Empire can take the students back the eras via VR. Software programs can create up-close reenactments or let students explore life back then through a mouse.

A literature teacher can bring The Odyssey to life, a science teacher can take us to Mars . . . .

and a math teacher can create actual scenarios where algebra would be used, and prove Joey wrong!

All these scenarios can be created in virtual reality.

The article mentions how virtual reality can also be a great motivator for learning, and I completely agree. It would much more exciting and intriguing to learn about space if I could pretend to travel there.

It also discusses how VR can be used as a tool to inspire creative learning. Creative learning helps students think outside the box, and also helps them develop problem solving skills that they would use in real life situations.

Virtual reality does not have to be as expensive as it seems. It would be great if every student could have one of those fancy head-sets or special star-trek esque eye-glasses, but they aren’t always necessary. There are various software and computer programs that also offer VR simulations for a more reasonable price.

If you are ever stuck on way to teach a subject or topic, why not give virtual reality a try!

photo credit: http://theberry.com/2015/03/25/can-i-get-a-preach-17-photos/#gallery-item-8