Future of Virtual Reality in the Science Classroom

As strange as it may seem to think about the future of this newly developed emerging trend in education, there are still some aspects that have yet to be explored. In my previous post, I discussed what Virtual Reality was currently being used in the classrooms and how it is easy to implement and cost effective. Now, it is time to delve into the possibilities of how Virtual Reality can change education for the better.

When I became a Science Teacher, I always wondered what the future would hold for the science classroom. My education through the science curriculum was mainly focused on the aspects of lab activities with science text based readings. To think of what science education can become is absolutely stunning. We are encouraged to follow the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) practices in our curriculum, but what does that actually mean? Delaware has just recently adopted the Next Generation Science Standards which has a focus on STEM practices; however, very little is done in kit training to implement these resources. I can't think of a better resource to implement for STEM than Virtual Reality. Students will be able to virtually practice engineering in designing of buildings and bridges.

The above picture is of a construction site in a Virtual Reality world. Students won't just read about what it takes to become an engineer, but they can actually BECOME an engineer. This is what the future will hold for Virtual Reality. Instead of reading about all the great things people are able to do, they will be able to become the individuals they strive to be. This is an amazing concept. Who would've thought 10 years ago that education could have these technologies implemented. Imagine what these Virtual Reality sites can do for the NASA program!

The science classroom is ever expanding and Virtual Reality will revolutionize the experience within the classroom. There are many challenges that the world will face in the future and it is up to future generations to face these challenges head on. Some challenges we are unaware of currently, and Virtual Reality in the science classroom can prepare students to tackle these challenges head on. I'm beyond excited for what VR can do for not only the science classroom, but the future of humanity.

The above video demonstrates the many different challenges we may face as humanity and how VR can help solve some of our problems. 

Virtual Reality in the Science Classroom

Hello everyone! My name is Justice Roberts and I am an 8th grade science teacher. I've been exploring the possibilities of using Virtual Reality (VR) in my classroom.

Over the past couple weeks, I have learned a vast amount of information that can benefit student learning by using Virtual Reality. For those of you who don't know what Virtual Reality is, it is an interactive virtual world that allows anyone that uses it to feel as if they're in the simulation. The idea of Virtual Reality started with video games, but it has taken a turn to Education. This is exciting news for teachers because it's another way to engage students.

Here is a quick link to explain what Virtual Reality is: Mashable Explains

Although there are many applications that can be used in education, as a science teacher, I wanted to focus on all the possibilities that Virtual Reality can have in our classrooms.

Virtual Reality in Science

After researching Virtual Reality, the most promising discoveries I've made were all the applications related to Science! There is so much that can be done with different units of study within the field of Science by using VR. For example, there are VR sites and apps that allow you to view the inside of a cell, explore the brain, go on an Apollo 11 mission, and even tour the universe.

This is a tour of the universe by Titans of Space.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to understanding science in a virtual way. Students are able to see scale models of the solar system and look at the size and distance of these celestial objects which ties in perfectly with the Next Generation Science Standards. 

To view more of the applications within education click the link. 

Implementation of VR in the Classroom

Many devices we see on commercials that show the virtual reality headsets can be rather expensive. However, there are inexpensive ways to implement VR in the classroom. The picture on the right shows one of the expensive virtual reality devices for students. This can be an option for schools that have the funds necessary. There are even apps on iPads and tablets that students are able to use, if they are available. 

Students will be able to view the world from a different vantage point by using this new technology. Google has created Google Cardboard which is only $15 and any smartphone can hook up to this device which allows students to use the Virtual Reality apps that are provided.

There is no telling where Virtual Reality could lead us to. However, if students are able to use the technology available today, there are endless possibilities of the technology they will create. And that, is the purpose of STEM practices. 

References:

Ergurel, D. (2016, December 20). 10 virtual reality apps transforming education. Retrieved February 05, 2017, from https://haptic.al/10-virtual-reality-apps-transforming-education-dc7586badb9a#.hn9vqhxz2