12 Reasons XR Technologies are Essential to the Modern Learner

David Jarboe, Director of Instructional Technology & STEAM, Colorado Springs Harrison District 2 Schools

Presenting Standard-Based Content through Engaging ExperiencesTop of Form

The use of virtual reality (VR) to present standard-based content can be a valuable tool for educators, allowing them to engage students in a variety of ways. From exploring history, science, and the arts to career and technical training, VR can provide expanded experiences for background information and virtual field trips which can be impossible to reach in person. With the use of VR, educators can provide content that is more immersive and engaging.

Virtual Classroom, Learning Space, Collaboration

Virtual reality can also be used to create a virtual classroom or learning space. With the use of VR, educators can create a collaborative environment where students can interact and learn in an engaging way. This type of learning space can provide students with the opportunity to work together on projects and assignments, while also allowing them to explore different topics more interactively.

Using VR also allows educators to create a more equitable learning space, as it provides easier access to students who may not be able to attend in-person classes due to physical or financial limitations. It also allows students to work together in a safe and secure setting, away from any potential distractions.

Career/Technical Training

With the use of XR technologies, educators can provide career and technical training to students in a more engaging and immersive way. This type of training can provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in a particular field, as well as provide them with a better understanding of the different aspects of the job. This type of training can also be beneficial for students who may not feel comfortable learning in a traditional classroom setting, as the use of VR allows them to feel more engaged and comfortable with the material.

Providing Expanded Experiences for Background Information

Virtual reality can also be used to provide expanded experiences for background information. This type of experience can help to provide students with more context and understanding of the material they are learning. For example, with the use of VR, students can explore museums around the world, or take a virtual tour of various habitats throughout the globe.  It can also provide students with an opportunity to explore different cultures and environments without having to leave their classroom.

Take Impossible Virtual Field Trips

The use of VR can also be used to take virtual field trips, allowing students to explore locations throughout the globe, as well as impossible locations such as the International Space Station, underwater locations, or even inside the human body. This type of experience can provide students with the opportunity to explore these locations in a uniquely immersive way, allowing them to gain a greater appreciation and first-hand perspective.

Telling Immersive Narratives

XR can also be used to create and relate narrative experiences, such as titles like Star Wars or the Anne Frank House. This type of experience can help to provide students with a first-person experience, unlike other media.

“From exploring history, science, and the arts to career and technical training, VR can provide expanded experiences for background information and virtual field trips which can be impossible to reach in person.”

Social-Emotional Learning Experiences

Virtual reality can also be used to provide social-emotional learning experiences. This type of experience can help to create empathy by allowing students to “walk in another’s shoes” and gain a better understanding of different cultures and environments. Experiences can take students to third-world countries and experience life in other cultures. This type of experience can also help to foster a sense of understanding and appreciation for different cultures and beliefs.

Equitable Opportunities

Using XR, educators can provide equitable opportunities for all students, regardless of physical or financial limitations. These virtual experiences can provide students with the same level of access to content and resources, allowing them to learn in a safe and secure environment.

Specialized Education

XR can also be used to provide specialized educational experiences for students with special needs. Some students are more likely to interact with a non-threatening technology-based interface than with direct human contact.  These experiences can provide students with the opportunity to engage in behavior training and therapies in a more immersive and engaging way. 

Physical Fitness and Coordination

The use of XR can also be used to provide physical fitness experiences, allowing students to engage in activities such as hand-eye coordination and physical activity. These experiences can be beneficial for students who may not have access to physical activities in their local area, as it provides them with the opportunity to stay active and healthy in a safe and secure virtual environment.

XR Design/Programming Training

XR can also be used to provide design and programming experiences, allowing students to explore different aspects of the material in a more immersive and engaging way.  XR is a rapidly growing field with many job opportunities. As the use of XR technology becomes more widespread, there will be greater demand for professionals who are skilled in designing and programming XR experiences.

Studying XR can help students develop a range of technical and soft skills. In addition to learning programming and design skills, students who study XR will also develop problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills.

It also allows for creative expression and problem-solving. Studying XR design and programming can provide students with an outlet for creativity and a way to develop solutions to real-world problems.  This technology has the potential to transform a wide range of industries. From education and career training to healthcare, XR has the potential to revolutionize how we work and interact with the world. 

Having Fun

Finally, the use of XR can also be used to provide students with an overall more fun and engaging learning experience. With the use of these technologies, students can play, explore different locations, participate in activities, and even become part of the experiences through immersive interactions.  Newer devices provide physical feedback in addition to the visual experience.  The ability to touch and feel is taking these experiences to an entirely new level helping to foster a greater sense of creativity and imagination.

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