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Role Of Technology In Reimagining The Classroom

In the 21st century, technology is transforming almost every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. From the rise of digital learning tools and online platforms to the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) in the classroom, the way we teach and learn is undergoing a seismic shift. As we look toward the future, it is clear that technology will continue to play a key role in shaping education, from the elementary school classroom to universities and beyond. The Evolution of the Classroom: From Chalkboards to Digital Learning Traditionally, education has been characterized by a physical classroom, a teacher delivering a lecture, and students passively absorbing information. But this model is quickly evolving, with technology ushering in new forms of teaching and learning that are more interactive, engaging, and tailored to individual needs.The shift toward technology in education began with the introduction of personal computers in classrooms in the 1980s and early 1990s. By the early 2000s, the internet had become a critical resource, enabling access to information, online libraries, and digital tools that enhanced the traditional learning experience. In recent years, the advent of powerful digital tools such as learning management systems (LMS), e-learning platforms, and virtual classrooms has expanded the possibilities for how students and teachers interact. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this transformation. Schools around the world were forced to close their doors, and educators turned to online platforms to continue teaching. Remote learning became the norm, and even once schools reopened, hybrid and online learning options remained a fixture of the educational landscape. This period of disruption highlighted the potential for technology to reshape education, pushing institutions to rethink the classroom experience. Technology as a Catalyst for Change: Key Innovations in Education Several key technological innovations are revolutionizing the classroom experience. These innovations are not only enhancing the learning experience but also making education more accessible, engaging, and personalized. 1. Digital Learning Tools and Platforms The rise of digital learning platforms has made education more flexible and accessible. Tools like Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams, and Blackboard have transformed how educators manage assignments, communicate with students, and deliver lessons. Learning management systems (LMS) allow teachers to create interactive lessons, track student progress, and engage in real-time feedback, making it easier to personalize the learning experience. In addition to LMS, platforms such as Khan Academy, Duolingo, and Coursera provide students with access to a wealth of knowledge at their fingertips. Students can take courses from prestigious universities, learn new skills through online tutorials, or practice languages with AI-powered platforms. For eg. Khan Academy, a nonprofit educational organization, offers free online courses in subjects ranging from math to history. By providing self-paced lessons, students can learn at their own pace and receive personalized recommendations based on their progress. 2. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used to enhance the educational experience by personalizing learning. AI-driven tools such as DreamBox and Knewton use data and algorithms to adapt lessons to a student’s strengths and weaknesses. These tools can monitor student performance in real time, adjusting difficulty levels and providing customized learning paths. In addition to personalized learning, AI is also being used to automate administrative tasks, such as grading and scheduling, which frees up teachers to focus on more meaningful interactions with their students. eg. Squirrel AI in China is an AI-powered learning platform that uses machine learning to assess student performance and adjust lessons accordingly. It creates a personalized learning journey for each student, helping them focus on areas of weakness while reinforcing their strengths. 3. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are transforming education by offering immersive and interactive learning experiences. These technologies allow students to engage with content in ways that were previously unimaginable. Virtual Reality (VR): VR enables students to step into completely virtual worlds, whether• it’s exploring the surface of Mars or taking a tour of the human circulatory system. VR is especially effective for subjects like history, science, and geography, as it allows students to experience events, places, and concepts in a deeply engaging way. Augmented Reality (AR): AR overlays digital content onto the physical world, enhancing• the learning experience. Students can use their smartphones or tablets to interact with 3D models, view virtual objects in real-world spaces, or learn about historical landmarks in real time. For eg. ClassVR is a platform that allows schools to take advantage of virtual reality to deliver immersive, curriculum-based learning. Students can explore the solar system, dive into the depths of the ocean, or tour historical sites—all from within the classroom. 4. Gamification and Interactive Learning Gamification, the process of integrating game-like elements into learning, is another technology driven innovation that has proven effective in engaging students. By incorporating challenges, rewards, and progress tracking into lessons, educators can motivate students to stay engaged and take ownership of their learning. Interactive learning apps, quizzes, and simulations allow students to actively participate in the learning process, rather than passively receiving information. Platforms like Kahoot! and Quizlet allow students to participate in interactive quizzes and games that reinforce their learning. For eg. Duolingo is a gamified language-learning app that has turned learning into an interactive, enjoyable experience. With its use of points, levels, and daily streaks, Duolingo motivates students to practice their language skills regularly.

“As we move toward the future, it is clear that technology will continue to play a pivotal role in reimagining the classroom. By embracing these innovations and overcoming the challenges, we can create a more personalized, inclusive, and engaging educational experience for students around the world.”

The Benefits of Technology in Education The integration of technology into the classroom offers several key benefits that are reshaping the educational landscape. 1. Personalization and Adaptive Learning: One of the most significant advantages of technology in education is the ability to personalize learning experiences. AI and machine learning algorithms can track a student’s progress and adapt lessons to meet their individual needs. This ensures that students are challenged appropriately, rather than being held back by a one-size-fits-all curriculum. For students who require extra help or have learning disabilities, personalized learning technology can offer tailored resources that cater to their unique needs, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
2. Increased Access And Inclusivity Technology has the power to democratize education by providing access to learning materials and opportunities to people from all walks of life. Students in remote or underserved areas can now access high-quality educational content through online platforms, mobile apps, and digital libraries. Additionally, technology can break down barriers for students with disabilities. For instance, speech-to-text tools, screen readers, and other assistive technologies enable students with visual or auditory impairments to engage with content in a way that was once not possible.
3. Enhanced Engagement and Motivation With the introduction of interactive tools, gamification, and immersive technologies like VR and AR, students are more engaged than ever before. These technologies create dynamic, hands-on experiences that make learning enjoyable and memorable.
Gamification, in particular, has been shown to boost motivation by providing students with tangible rewards and a sense of progress. Students are more likely to stay focused and continue learning when they can track their achievements and set goals. Challenges and Considerations in Technology-Driven Education. While the benefits of technology in education are clear, there are also significant challenges that must be addressed to ensure that technology is used effectively and equitably. 1. The Digital Divide: One of the most pressing issues is the digital divide—the gap between those who have access to technology and those who do not. In many parts of the world, especially in rural or impoverished areas, students lack access to reliable internet connections, computers, or other essential devices. This lack of access can exacerbate educational inequalities and hinder students’ ability to fully participate in the digital learning environment.
2. Data Privacy and Security As educational platforms collect vast amounts of student data, concerns over privacy and data security have come to the forefront. It is critical that schools and educational institutions prioritize the protection of students’ personal information to prevent misuse and ensure compliance with regulations like the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) in the U.S.
3. Teacher Training and Support For technology to be truly effective in the classroom, teachers must be adequately trained to use it. While many teachers are proficient in basic technology use, integrating advanced tools like AI, VR, and gamification requires specialized training and ongoing professional development. Schools and institutions must invest in teacher training to ensure that educators can harness the full potential of these tools.
The Future of the Classroom;A Hybrid Learning Model: As technology continues to evolve, the classroom of the future will likely be a blend of in-person and digital learning. The hybrid model, which combines face-to-face teaching with online learning, will become the norm. This approach offers flexibility for students, enabling them to learn at their own pace while still benefiting from personal interaction with teachers and peers .In the future, we may see classrooms that are powered by AI, where personalized learning paths are automatically adjusted based on a student’s progress. Virtual reality will offer immersive experiences that allow students to explore historical events or conduct virtual science experiments, all within the classroom. Teachers will use AI tools to manage tasks like grading and student feedback, enabling them to focus on what matters most—teaching and supporting their students. In nutshell, Technology has already made a significant impact on education, and as advancements continue, its potential to transform the classroom is limitless. From AI and VR to personalized learning platforms and gamification, technology is reshaping how students learn and how teachers teach. While challenges remain—such as the digital divide and data security—technology’s role in education is undeniable. As we move toward the future, it is clear that technology will continue to play a pivotal role in reimagining the classroom. By embracing these innovations and overcoming the challenges, we can create a more personalized, inclusive, and engaging educational experience for students around the world.

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Role Of Technology In Reimagining The Classroom

1. Januar 2025 0 comment

Examples

Welcome to your virtual reality-based classroom

VR innovation can make education truly inclusive and sustainable. Here’s how academics at UCL and Marmara University developed a virtual reality-based building

Equitability of access in education remains a global challenge in today’s digital era, creating a divide between those with access to physical training on advanced expensive scientific equipment, and those whose training is purely theoretical.

This division hinders global scientific equality in employment, as those without access to in-person training are at a significant disadvantage in the employment market. In order to address this disparity, the 3DI Virtual Reality (VR) Institute, a collaboration between UCL and Marmara University, chose to develop an accessible virtual reality-based building. It combines multilingual conversational AI avatars with digital twin models of current 3D printing equipment.

In this virtual institute, students and researchers from anywhere in the world can access high-quality training and resources in any language, regardless of their location. Scientific training can be provided by simply putting on a low-cost VR headset, across the globe. This article explores how we created a virtual hub for 3D printing education that could serve as a model for the future of accessible education across the globe.

Creating a globally accessible institute

While many global collaborations rely on webpage-based collectives, the 3DI Institute was designed at its outset to be a digital-only VR-based learning environment that specialises in training and collaboration in 3D printing, based virtually in a four-floor virtual building and accessible via either a PC or a low-cost VR headset.

This building was designed to replicate the physical space of a normal building, through inclusion of meeting rooms, laboratories, equipment rooms, seminar spaces and conference facilities, as well as access to digital twin models of best-in-class 3D printing equipment, ensuring that users could experience realistic hands-on training in a digital learning environment.

Key insights on building a VR-based educational hub:

Software: At its outset, we sought a sustainable approach to collaboration, where we could meet with colleagues in Marmara University without the need for physical travel. To this end, we developed software using Unreal engine, which would enable us to meet both via PC or Meta Quest 2/3 headsets and train together in the same building, exactly the same as in real life. Simply putting on a headset, the user is transported to the digital 3DI centre.
Digital twin technology: Our 3DI digital twin concept allows students to practise with replicas of real-life 3D printing equipment, reducing the need to over-purchase expensive machinery and enabling institutions to scale resources across different regions. This involves digitisation of existing equipment, necessitating CAD-based skills and/or training.
AI avatars for 24/7 support: While we typically train students in English, there is often a gap in communication that can hinder students’ progress. To overcome this, we sought to include multilingual AI conversational avatars at the outset, to allow students from any time zone to access guidance in their own language, creating an inclusive, round-the-clock learning experience. These avatars serve as virtual tutors, bridging the gap between students and real-life instructors and widening access to an often-overlooked need by students.

Overcoming challenges and building partnerships

While designing the concept of the 3DI Institute, we were fortunate to receive support from the British Council’s Connection for Innovation funding. This support was instrumental in helping us overcome early barriers, setting a strong foundation for ongoing collaboration.

The team make-up was also essential, as it involved others taking on a steep learning journey in technology that we had undergone at UCL. Being able to train others over a thousand miles away is challenging at the best of times, but the team in Marmara were incredible, with the creation of a train-the-trainer session at the outset, to build the foundations of technology adoption of VR in Marmara.

Practical advice for VR-enhanced education

Invest in scalable VR tools: Start by building/working with VR modules that can be scaled and adapted for different courses. At the 3DI Institute, we designed versatile VR components that can easily be expanded or modified as desired.
Emphasise environmental sustainability: By reducing the need for travel and physical resources, VR solutions not only lower costs but significantly reduce carbon footprints of global collaboration.
Prioritise accessibility through AI: Overcoming geographical barriers and deploying multilingual AI avatars has made our institute more inclusive, allowing users across the globe from diverse linguistic backgrounds to benefit from the resources.

The 3DI Institute showcases the transformative potential of VR in scientific education and training. By breaking down physical barriers and offering sustainable, accessible and interactive learning environments, we have created a precedent that other institutions can easily adopt. The project proves that with the right partnerships, collaboration and technology, we can create a future where quality education is universally accessible.

Quelle:

Foto: iStock/Artem Laktikov.

https://www.timeshighereducation.com/campus/welcome-your-virtual-realitybased-classroom

5. Dezember 2024 0 comment

Examples

Virtual reality check: Can VR headsets help in classrooms?

VR headsets have long been around in gaming, but they’re increasingly also finding their way into classrooms. Gimmick or genuine educational breakthrough? Ina Fassbender/dpa

nstead of going on language trips to other countries, why not order an espresso in an Italian café while sitting at home on the couch?

What sounds a bit like science fiction is possible with the help of virtual reality (VR). “In virtual environments, learners can actively act and communicate, regardless of location,” says educator Timo Ahlers, who researches VR at the University of Potsdam in Germany.

But what is VR? “It’s a computer-generated, purely digital environment in which you can move virtually in real time,” explains Ahlers.

This environment can be experienced through a head-mounted display, better known as a VR headset: “This means that my seeing and hearing are virtually linked to the virtual environment.”

Learn a language in VR

Simulating a visit to a café or a doctor, solving puzzles in a labyrinth, playing a basketball game or having a conversation around a virtual campfire: VR makes many things possible.

What makes it special is that language training can be combined with virtual visits to places. “With VR headsets you can put yourself in an extremely realistic situation,” says Ahlers. His team has researched game-based language learning in virtual environments.

One of the research results they found is that VR can be useful to improve communication skills when learning languages. “When you take self-study courses, you rarely get to speak and listen. Oral skills are currently being trained in VR applications,” explains Ahlers.

Exploring a virtual environment or solving tasks provide incentives to converse. Being able to start flexibly without being tied to specific course offerings or times is another advantage of virtual learning worlds.

More and more educational content is being conveyed through VR, according to Sabrina Basler from the German Adult Education Association. This includes virtual excursions, city tours or museum visits as well as professional training.

VR can also help with teaching complex work steps. Train drivers can learn to operate new trains in a virtual environment or medical students can simulate operations before either actually drives a train or operates on a real patient.

“In preparation for a real situation, it can be useful to have already mastered a task virtually,” says Ahlers. “I always see a benefit where VR is more effective or cheaper.”

Virtual excursions instead of real trips

In adult education courses, the aim is to use VR to visualise learning objects and make them tangible.

“Far-away learning or experience spaces can also be made accessible to people who, for social or age reasons, would not have regular access to these experiences, such as virtual excursions as a replacement for real trips,” Basler says.

VR can also be used in schools: For example, a journey through time to antiquity in history lessons, walking through the human body in biology or an expedition to the Earth’s core in geography.

However, this kind of learning “is not suitable for use by students under the age of 13 because their visual development is not yet complete,” Ahlers says.

The use of VR in the education sector is still rare, mainly due to high costs. “The apps are often still demos or smaller, very partial applications. There are hardly any very large learning applications because the development effort is currently still relatively high,” according to the VR expert.

Added to this is the cost of the equipment. You can currently get cheap headsets for around €300/$300, says Ahlers. There are also rental options and headsets without a display into which a smartphone is inserted. These can be had for around €100/$100 but don’t work so well, Ahlers says.

Future is unclear

So what is the future of VR in the education sector? “In terms of breadth, gaming is currently clearly ahead,” says Ahlers.

Despite the benefits, he does not see VR applications as an alternative to conventional learning methods: “I think the expectation that the virtual world will function as a mirror image of the real world is a little exaggerated.”

There is also still scepticism at adult education centres as to whether and to what extent VR will become established on a large scale.

“It is unclear as to whether VR can produce a genuine didactic benefit in practise or whether the wow effect of the technology will wear off quickly,” says Basler.

Quelle:

Foto: Astrophysics is complicated, but VR glasses can help explain the workings of the cosmos more clearly. Ralf Hirschberger/dpa

https://www.yahoo.com/tech/virtual-reality-check-vr-headsets-171213109.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAH6wVfq43aCKPBCr5sd7JvM8p6RvFIZv3NMyF4_QaksJJy0MmeJwqRzpOGZiN7aVQdcBGIwPNYUwblD1CaLMOZYSLTcIWKFRQCFQxMXO1p2ck8NPCleArYmuvqZagpEosqJy-ZiDCeB1w9sc6vuX9jfhIl1vpNWuXRdDxmASqqix

4. Dezember 2024 0 comment

Examples

Four new ways university classrooms are using virtual reality

From training miners to early childhood education student teachers who can’t get access to infants, virtual reality is helping students simulate a host of scenarios.

Virtual reality is still finding its footing in higher education, but with the cost of headsets declining and a growing number of software, as well as tools for users to create their own content, more classrooms are adopting VR.

At Indiana University Bloomington, professor emeritus Bernard Frischer is using a virtual tourism app from his own company, FlyoverZone, to teach students about archaeology. His VR software takes students on tours of ancient ruins as they appear today — and as they once appeared. His tours include World Heritage Sites in Italy, Egypt, Greece, Mexico and Lebanon.

New VR software was recently adopted by the University of Canterbury in New Zealand to help train early childhood education student teachers who are unable to gain access to working with infants. The software is designed to clue students into non-verbal cues from infants that non-family members have difficulty identifying. Beyond VR, the system also includes gloves that provide haptic feedback to simulate the resistance one would feel when handling an infant.

At the University of Utah, students attending the Center for Mine Safety and Health at the Department of Mining Engineering are using VR to recreate the experience of entering a mine and operating equipment. The training is designed to improve safety and boost the confidence of students, without the risk of entering a real mine.

According to a June report from Fortune Business Insights, the virtual reality education market is projected to grow from 5.69 billion in 2024 to 42.40 billion by 2032. The nonprofit Educause was more cautious in its projections last year, plotting out several possible scenarios, including large growth or possible stagnancy.

Catawba College, a small, private liberal-arts school in North Carolina, is planning this fall to bring some of its biology students VR scenarios from Dreamscape Learn, with the aim of boosting engagement in a subject that some find difficulty connecting with.

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Foto: Getty Images

Four new ways university classrooms are using virtual reality

10. Juli 2024 0 comment

Examples

Classroom Transformation: Leveraging VR Technology in Higher Education

Unlocking the power of VR in higher education

As the virtual reality (VR) landscape has evolved, the potential use cases for this immersive technology have grown too. Today, virtual reality is more than just a resource for entertainment; it’s a powerful tool for unlocking better collaboration, productivity, and creativity in a range of environments.

In the educational sector, VR has emerged as an incredible way to transform the way we learn and teach, allowing students to explore and interact with realistic scenarios like never before. With the right resources, educators can empower learners with both soft skills, and the vocational skills they need to thrive in the world of employment.

Here’s your behind the scenes look at the power of virtual reality in higher education.

Why Use VR Technology in Higher Education?

In a 2020 study, PWC found VR unlocks incredible benefits in education. Compared to traditional classroom learners, VR learners completed courses 4 times faster, were 4 times more focused, and were 3.75 times more emotionally connected to the content. Leading VRaaS (Virtual Reality as a Service) vendor Virtualware’s research builds on these insights.

They discovered that 90% of learners were more confident in using their new skills after VR training. Plus, they achieved knowledge retention rates of up to 75%, compared to just 5-10% for other learning methods. Virtual reality in higher education can:

Empower Students with Crucial Soft Skills

Virtual reality learning is a form of “experiential” learning. This means students learn through hands-on, practical simulations of real-world environments. This form of education delivers knowledge retention rates of up to 90%, and is particularly useful for training soft skills.

VR allows students to engage in role-based exercises in realistic environments. With speech analysis and AI, VR systems can comprehensively evaluate students’ verbal communication skills, and provide immediate feedback. They can also empower students to interact with “virtual characters” giving them the confidence they need to collaborate and engage with others more effectively in the real world.

Break Down Boundaries to Education

As higher education campuses become more global, investing in distance learning initiatives, VR offers an opportunity to deliver immersive experiences to every student, regardless of their location. Educational institutions can use VR as a service solutions to create entire virtual campus environments, for year-round lectures, events, networking, and training experiences.

This ensures every student can get the full “classroom” experience, even if they’re unable to attend a classroom themselves. It can even help to recruit new students to colleges and universities, giving them the chance to explore digital twins of campus environments from a distance. One study found VR experiences for colleges like Yale, Harvard and Princeton led to a 27% increase in the number of customers physically visiting campuses.

Improve Student Experiences

VR brings learning to life in a way no other technology can match. It allows users to experiment with scenarios they couldn’t access in a traditional college campus. For instance, the University of El Salvador (UES), the only public higher education institution in the country, has installed 7 virtual reality laboratories in 2022 and 2023 to enhance students’ learning in health, engineering, and architecture.

The Faculties of Medicine, Dentistry, Chemistry, and Pharmacy at UES can develop innovative learning models and create more dynamic and interactive classes using VIROO, the VR platform on which the new labs are based.

This platform enables students to create their own VR content and connect and collaborate in real-time, both in-person and remotely, from the 7 different rooms located in Santa Ana, San Miguel, and San Salvador. They can explore a range of environments without the need to travel. The sessions can even be tailored to suit different students, with specific learning styles, requirements, and skill sets.

With VR, engineering students can use VR to design buildings, history students can explore ancient ruins, and medical students can practice procedures on virtual bodies. Not only do these immersive experiences make the classes more engaging, but they save higher education facilities money on field trips, and resources to enable experiential lessons.

Enhance group learning experiences

VR has the power to significantly improve collaboration between teachers, students, and peers in a classroom. Through avatars, students can interact and build relationships with other people, regardless of their location. Virtual reality platforms also allow educational providers to create environments where distributed students can work together on projects in real-time.

For instance, the Universidad EAN in Colombia, integrated this platform into its academic programs in 2021. Since then, the students keep creating multiple and different VR content on their own, particularly for business and technology fields, continually innovating its teaching materials.

Prepare Students for the Workplace

Perhaps the biggest benefit of VR in higher education is its ability to prepare students for vocational experiences. With VR, higher education facilities can create simulations of typical workplace environments, where learners can prepare for their entry into the working world.

As part of the Basque Government’s strategy to integrate immersive technologies into education, 34 vocational training centers across Spain are being equipped with the VIROO platform, with 25 of those centers having dedicated VR rooms. “This initiative enables interactive, cost-effective, and secure learning experiences, allowing teachers and students to create, manage, and deploy VR resources easily, setting a new standard in VR education” adds Unai Extremo, CEO at Virtualware

Examples of VR in Higher Education

Already, innovative campuses and higher education facilities are discovering the benefits of virtual reality for themselves. At the International Vocational Training Congress in 2023, the Minister of Education in Spain revealed how over 15 new VR training centers located throughout the region were already helping to improve teaching-learning processes and empower students.

Case studies are starting to emerge all over the world. For instance, as part of the UniMetaTech Innovation Centre, (March 2024), a new Immersive Technologies room has been created under the VIROO platform. The aim is to strengthen UNIMETA’s competitiveness in immersive technologies, promote employment and entrepreneurship, and gradually integrate this technology into training procedures, thus enriching educational innovation at UniMetaTech.

The spaces not only give students the power to explore simulated environments for hands-on learning experiences, but they also empower educators.

For instance, using the flexible VIROO platform, the teachers in the academy can easily manage, administer, and adapt learning resources and activities in the labs, tailoring them to different learning levels, and subjects. This allows for a more agile training experience, that can evolve to suit the needs of countless students in different vocational areas over the years.

Bringing Virtual Reality to Higher Education

Colleges and universities constantly strive to invest in the most advanced equipment and resources for their students. Unfortunately, with limited budgets, it’s often difficult to ensure every student has access to the same resources. Often, learners have to share equipment with others, limiting the time they get to enjoy hands-on experiences.

“Virtual reality gives educational facilities more opportunities to scale their learning experiences to all students, giving them the same immersive experience wherever they are. With VR as a service platforms,like VIROO universities can build highly scalable immersive learning environments to suit the needs of every student, and address every subject matter” – Unai Extremo, CEO of Virtualware

Platforms like Virtualware’s VIROO VRaaS system help to empower better knowledge transfer and retention, increase student motivation, and even boost enrolment. Plus, they ensure educational facilities can effectively prepare students for the real world, by immersing them in true-to-life environments and scenarios, that elevate both confidence and skills.

Quelle:

Classroom Transformation: Leveraging VR Technology in Higher Education

18. Juni 2024 0 comment

Examples

Using Augmented Reality In The Classroom: A Guide For Educators

By leveraging AR technology, educators can create dynamic and inclusive learning environments that inspire curiosity, deepen understanding, and prepare students for success in the digital age.

Unlocking Learning Potential Through AR

Augmented Reality (AR) can revolutionize the classroom experience by making learning more engaging, interactive, and immersive. There are several ways educators can integrate AR into their teaching practices.

Augmented Reality In The Classroom: Uses And Benefits

1. Virtual Field Trips

AR enables students to go on virtual field trips to places they might not otherwise have access to. For example, students can explore ancient ruins, dive into the depths of the ocean, or even journey through space, all from the comfort of their classroom. This immersive experience helps students visualize concepts and fosters a deeper understanding of the subject matter. With AR, students can virtually visit historical sites, museums, or geographical locations without leaving the classroom. AR apps can overlay relevant information, 3D models, or animations onto real-world environments, providing an immersive learning experience.

2. Interactive Learning Materials

AR allows students to interact with digital content in real time, turning passive learning experiences into active ones. For instance, students can manipulate virtual objects, conduct virtual experiments, or solve puzzles using AR apps, which promotes hands-on learning and critical thinking skills. Textbooks and worksheets can be enhanced with AR content, such as 3D models, videos, or quizzes. Students can use AR-enabled devices to scan pages and access additional information or interactive activities related to the topic.

3. Science Simulations

AR simulations allow students to conduct virtual science experiments or explore complex scientific concepts in a safe and interactive environment. For example, students can dissect virtual organisms, explore the human body, or observe the solar system in 3D.

4. Language Learning

Augmented Reality in classrooms can facilitate language learning by providing immersive experiences that encourage students to practice vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversation skills. For example, AR apps can overlay labels or translations onto real-world objects, making language learning more contextual and engaging.

5. Historical Reconstruction

AR can bring history to life by reconstructing historical events, monuments, or artifacts in 3D. Students can explore ancient civilizations, reenact historical battles, or interact with famous figures from the past, gaining a deeper understanding of historical context.

6. Mathematics Visualization

AR can help students visualize abstract mathematical concepts by providing interactive models, graphs, or geometric shapes overlaid onto real-world surfaces. For example, students can explore geometric principles by manipulating virtual shapes or solving math problems in a virtual environment.

7. Art And Design

AR tools allow students to create and interact with digital artworks or 3D models overlaid onto real-world surfaces. Students can explore perspective, composition, and spatial relationships, unleashing their creativity in new and innovative ways.

8. Collaborative Learning

AR promotes collaboration and teamwork by allowing students to interact with AR content together. For example, students can collaborate on solving puzzles, completing scavenger hunts, or conducting virtual experiments, fostering communication and problem-solving skills.

9. Accessibility And Inclusivity

AR can accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities by providing alternative ways to access and interact with educational content. For example, AR apps can offer audio descriptions, text-to-speech functionality, or customizable settings to meet the needs of individual learners.

10. Project-Based Learning

AR projects empower students to create their own AR experiences, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and digital literacy skills. Students can research a topic, design AR content, and present their projects to their peers, demonstrating their understanding in a meaningful and engaging way.

11. Engaging Content

Augmented Reality offers a dynamic way to present educational content. By overlaying digital information, such as 3D models, videos, or animations, onto real-world objects or environments, AR captures students‘ attention and makes learning more interactive and enjoyable.

12. Collaborative Experiences

AR fosters collaboration among students by encouraging them to work together on AR-based projects or activities. For example, students can collaborate on solving AR-based puzzles, creating interactive presentations, or conducting group experiments, which promotes teamwork and communication skills.

13. Accessibility

AR can make learning more accessible to students with diverse learning needs and abilities. For example, AR apps can provide audio descriptions, text-to-speech functionality, or customizable settings to accommodate different learning styles. Additionally, AR can help bridge the gap between abstract concepts and real-world applications, making learning more tangible and relatable for all students.

14. Creativity And Innovation

AR empowers students to become creators of content rather than just consumers. By designing their own AR experiences or projects, students can unleash their creativity, experiment with new ideas, and develop valuable digital literacy and problem-solving skills. This hands-on approach to learning encourages innovation and prepares students for the rapidly evolving digital world.

By integrating AR into the classroom, educators can create dynamic learning environments that inspire curiosity, deepen understanding, and prepare students for success in the digital age.

Quelle:

Foto: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock.com

https://elearningindustry.com/using-augmented-reality-in-the-classroom-a-guide-for-educators

28. Mai 2024 0 comment

Examples

Virtual reality in the classroom? The VR lab on wheels

General information

The rolling VR lab brings immersive learning experiences into the classroom. It is a mobile infrastructure for a virtual reality learning lab at the Chair of Learning and Teaching with Media at the University of the Federal Armed Forces in Munich. Equipped with a class set of VR headsets, virtual reality teaching units can be conducted directly in schools. So far, over 150 pupils from grades 10 to 13 have already taken part at schools in Magdeburg and Munich. Depending on the subject and grade level, various virtual learning worlds are available, such as prehistoric habitats, historical-political education or physical-biological phenomena. The learner-oriented design brings the content to life and enables authentic experiences that are otherwise difficult to achieve in regular lessons.

Virtual reality goggles are used to create immersive learning experiences, which are then reflected on collectively in the follow-up session.

Virtual reality learning worlds

We can currently provide teachers with the following virtual learning environments

Topic	Description	Subject	Class	Duration	Device(s)	Capacity
Sewage treatment plant	The stages of wastewater treatment at a conventional wastewater treatment plant are presented in virtual reality.	Biology (with parts of chemistry / physics)	10-13	35min	VR goggles	Up to 18 participants at the same time
360° dinosaurs (external)	A virtual tour of the Bavarian State Collection of Paleontology and Geology.	Geography / History	5-10	15min	VR goggles, tablet	Up to 18 participants at the same time
Historical teaching collection (external)	Multi-perspective historical awareness in a 360° learning environment. Focus: History of the displaced people.	History / Sociology	5-10	15min	VR goggles, tablet	Up to 18 participants at the same time
VR Exam Anxiety English (external)	Preparation for an oral examination situation in English	English / Psychology	5-12	15min	VR goggles, tablet	Up to 18 participants at the same time
Brücke VR	A 360° exploration of the Isenbrücke bridge in Schwindegg, bringing the topic of „digital twins“ closer. In addition, the sensor technology of the Isenbrücke is examined in more detail.	Physics / Computer Science	10-13	30min	VR goggles, tablet	Up to 18 participants at the same time

Handouts for teachers

Fact sheets, background information (see links), general information on VR learning environments, studies/projects

The rolling VR lab comes to your classroom

We currently have free dates again for the 2023/2024 school year. The school does not incur any costs when booking the rolling VR lab. The project is funded by research and therefore only benefits from the data collected during the training sessions. In principle, one date per learning world is planned. As an alternative offer for participation in VR training, pupils can be provided with comparable text-based information or learning texts.

Please contact us for more information on the possible VR learning content and the VR learning units at your school.

E-Mail: RollendesVRLabor@unibw.de

Homepage: https://www.unibw.de/labor_fuer_bildungsmedien-en

Quelle:

https://www.unibw.de/llm-en/research/virtual-reality-in-the-classroom-the-vr-lab-on-wheels

24. Mai 2024 0 comment

Examples

The Classroom of Tomorrow: Powered by Lenovo and Hevolus XR

Hevolus and Lenovo are making waves in the educational sector

Hevolus and Lenovo are making waves in the educational sector by integrating Extended Reality (XR) technologies with the Lenovo ThinkReality VRX headset directly in the classroom, transforming the traditional learning experience into an interactive and immersive journey. The collaboration between these two tech pioneers combines Hevolus’ innovative software and Lenovo’s cutting-edge hardware to create innovative educational tools that have both educators and students excited about the future of learning.

“Our XR solutions enhance education by merging immersive 3D holograms with the physical learning space, making lessons more engaging and memorable,” explained Hevolus CEO Fabio Santini. Transforming learning from a passive experience into an immersive journey, the approach “fosters social interaction between teachers and students, and deepens understanding and retention through emotional engagement and interactive experience,” he continued.

Straightforward deployment of XR in education

Integrating XR solutions into traditional educational settings was not without its challenges. Initially, there were concerns about how educators would adapt to using such advanced technology in their classrooms. “The XR technology we brought in was made to be easy to use, so teachers and students could get the hang of it without needing a lot of training,” Santini continued. By ensuring that the technology was user-friendly and giving teachers control over it, Hevolus effectively turned a potential hurdle into a significant advantage, enhancing the educational process.

The decision to partner with Lenovo and deploy the ThinkReality VRX was strategic. “Lenovo is a globally recognized company that has always prioritized customer success,” stated Santini. The synergy between Lenovo’s commitment to developing high-quality XR devices and Hevolus’ innovative educational solutions has enhanced the learning experience and added significant credibility to the initiative.

In particular the versatility of the technology means that the teacher can work with the ThinkReality VRX in pass-through mode, so they can observe first-hand the captivated attention of their students, even if they themselves are engaging with the VR content through a screen or a hologram – the solution does not require the upfront investment in high-end VR headsets for each participant.

Feedback from users has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting a transformative shift in education. “We’re seeing a fundamental change in how education is delivered and received,” Santini continued. “This new approach to learning is not only more effective but also more enjoyable for both educators and students.”

Preparing a new generation for a “phygital” world

On Lenovo’s side, the commitment to education and the next generation of XR users is clear. “Educating students on modern technologies is crucial to bridge the skills gap, foster innovation, and expand the market,” said Stefano Mazzola, EMEA XR Solution Sales Executive.

The company sees its role in educating the future workforce as not just a business strategy but also a key opportunity to deliver on its promise of Smarter Technology For All. A digitally native generation will use these technologies every day in their future careers, so why should they learn about them from a slide presentation in the classroom? As Mazzola declared, “New technologies, such as XR, represent just another piece of the ever-evolving technological landscape. We are dedicated to helping students of all ages realize their aspirations and seize the opportunities of the XR future.”

Looking ahead, Hevolus envisions a future where XR technology plays a central role in education. Santini shared excitement about the emergence of a “phygital” reality, where the physical and digital worlds blend seamlessly, offering a more engaging and personalized learning experience powered by wearable XR technology and artificial intelligence. “People will start wearing smart glasses or lenses a lot, which will let us see computer images as if they are right in front of us. This will make learning more fun and a part of our daily life. Also, with the help of artificial intelligence (AI), talking to and learning from computer programs will be as easy as talking to our teachers or friends. Mixing wearable XR tech with AI will make learning more interesting, personal, and better.”

Together, Hevolus and Lenovo are setting a new standard for educational technologies. By harnessing the power of XR, they are revolutionizing the learning experience and preparing students for a future where technology and education are inextricably linked.

As this innovative approach to learning continues to unfold, it promises to open up new possibilities for educators and students alike, making education more accessible, interactive, and engaging than ever before.

Santini concluded, “this new way of learning will not only help us learn better, but also get us ready for a future where the real and computer worlds are mixed.” Blending the best of traditional learning theories with the latest XR technologies, Lenovo and Hevolus are delivering a future-proof education in the classroom today, and preparing a new generation for the enterprise environment of the future.

Quelle:

The Classroom of Tomorrow: Powered by Lenovo and Hevolus XR

18. April 2024 0 comment

Examples

VR & AR in Smart Classrooms: Enhancing learning with immersive technology.

Classrooms and lesson delivery remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years. Instructional methods placed the teacher at the front of the classroom, with chalkboards, textbooks, pencils, and paper all being the mainstay of teaching tools. Fast forward to the 21st century, and the rapid evolution of education technology has overhauled learning experiences. Traditional classrooms are transitioning to become Smart Classrooms – teaching spaces enhanced by a range of technologies, including VR and AR.

Smart Classroom spaces are created by bringing a range of digital solutions into the learning environment. Interactive displays. Visualisers. Tablets. Laptops. VR and AR. The list of technologies to enrich teaching and learning is ever growing.

Moreover, as teachers face the challenge of keeping students focused and motivated in an increasingly digitised world, AR and VR technology offers an effective solution. Bringing virtual reality and augmented reality into a Smart Classroom empowers teachers to create immersive learning experiences that will ultimately increase student engagement and attention. In this article, we’ll explore the role of immersive technologies in Smart Classrooms and share best practice advice on how to embed these into teaching methods and curriculum delivery.

Immersive learning and the Smart Classroom

Most Smart Classrooms start by introducing commonly used edtech tools such as laptops, interactive displays, tablets and visualisers. In recent years, implementation of 3D printers has been on the rise, along with adoption of coding devices and increasingly sophisticated apps. All these technologies help to build a Smart Classroom that is inspirational and engaging by
stimulating auditory, visual, and kinaesthetic learners. However, none of these technologies can create truly immersive learning experiences. Immersive technologies, like augmented reality and virtual reality, are what’s needed to take Smart Classrooms to the next level. But why is immersive learning so important for education today?

Understanding immersive learning
Immersive learning is very similar to experiential learning. Experiential learning uses real-world scenarios to support education in a safe, stimulating and emotionally engaging way.

The Institute for Experiential Learning defines experiential learning as ‘the ideal process of learning, which invites you to understand yourself as a learner, and empowers you to take charge of your own learning and development through different learning styles’. This is highlighted in the diagram below.

The benefits of experiential learning
The benefits of experiential learning are far reaching, especially when it comes to creating opportunities for students to develop skills which will support lifelong learning. Some of the most recognised benefits of experiential learning are outlined below.

Creating real-world experiences and relevance
Experiential learning helps to create a sense of relevance. This is achieved by learners‘ minds being actively engaged.
Creative problem solving
Experiential learning gives students the opportunity to be more creative in problem-solving by presenting challenges to be resolved in a real-world scenario.
Speed of learning
Practical experiences can help students acquire new knowledge and concepts quicker. Being hands-on with a task strengthens neural connections which means skills can be learned and retained more effectively.
Opportunity for reflection
Experiential learning gives students the opportunity to analyse how their actions impact outcomes, while also being able to compare other students’ results to their own. This helps to move students from being passive learners to becoming actively engaged in reflective observation.
Learning through failure
Making mistakes is a crucial part of learning at any level of education. It allows students to experience, in a safe way, what does and doesn’t work. Where failure or mistakes are encountered, those actions are then avoided in future as students look for alternative approaches.
Soft skills development
Immersive learning can help students to develop valuable soft skills which are increasingly important for realising their lifelong potential. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision making are all examples of soft skills that are developed through experiential learning.

Experiential learning and the Smart Classroom

Academic research and studies have presented models and evidence which support the use of immersive technologies – including virtual reality – to create experiential learning opportunities.

One of the more recent of these was published by Makransky and Petersen (2021) in the Educational Psychology Review.

The Cognitive Affective Model of Immersive Learning (CAMIL): a Theoretical Research-Based Model of Learning in Immersive Virtual Reality’ describes six affective and cognitive factors that can lead to immersive virtual reality-based learning outcomes. These include interest, motivation, self-efficacy, embodiment, cognitive load, and self-regulation. The model also describes how these factors lead to factual, conceptual, and procedural knowledge acquisition and knowledge transfer.

For more practical insights on using AR and VR to enhance learning, read ‘three ways virtual
reality can transform education.

With a growing body of evidence that immersive technology can enhance learning, how can schools start to bring augmented and virtual reality into Smart Classrooms?

Bringing immersive technology into the Smart Classroom

Whether looking to create a new Smart Classroom with immersive technology or planning to enhance an existing Smart Classroom with augmented or virtual reality, the following introduces what you will need.

Augmented and virtual reality technologies are typically a combination of:

Hardware – the virtual reality headset is essentially a gateway to an immersive learning experience.
Software – powering the immersive technology, accompanying software or virtual reality portals enable teachers to manage and monitor how students are engaging with immersive learning content.
Content – this is perhaps the most important part of the immersive technology set-up as it is what students experience.

As with any technology for use in educational environments, there’s a wide choice of solutions available. When evaluating which immersive technology is most suited to your Smart Classroom, there’s a few key things to consider:

Has the hardware been specifically designed for the classroom? Protect your edtech investment by ensuring that headsets are sufficiently durable and ergonomically suited to students of all ages.
Will you have access to prepared content developed for education? Content is key when it comes to enhancing learning with immersive technology. When choosing virtual reality for your Smart Classroom, look for solutions which provide access to rich content libraries aligned with local curriculums. This will not only enrich students’ learning experiences, it will also save teachers’ time and help reduce workloads.
What kind of support with you receive? Working with an immersive technology partner who understands education will give you a supportive platform for initial implementation, and future pedagogical development.

Getting started with VR and AR in your Smart Classroom

If you’re yet to bring immersive technologies into your Smart Classroom, here’s a quick guide to help you get started.

Planning – Start by considering where VR and AR fit in your wider ICT and curriculum strategy. Then align this with your edtech budget. If you already have Smart Classrooms in school, planning should also factor in how the existing technologies can work together to enhance learning even further. Also think about available storage space in classrooms and whether there are any SEND pupils who might benefit from immersive experiences.
Procurement – Consult with at least three providers to evaluate the suitability of their immersive technology solution for education, the value that they can add to your school (including after-sales care), and their existing track record of working with education.
Implementation – In collaboration with the edtech partner, define your roll out strategy. Some schools prefer to start with pilot programmes where VR and AR is used in select year groups or classes, and then rolled out wider later. Others prefer school-wide adoption from day one and vary between having smaller numbers of headsets in every class, to a shared set of 30 across a department.

Once VR and AR has been implemented according to a school’s preferred strategy, the next step to enhancing learning with immersive technology is ensuring effective adoption – which comes through training, support, and disseminating best practice.

Developing immersive technology best practice

As with any technology in a Smart Classroom, the true value and positive educational impact comes through ensuring teachers have the confidence and skills to use it effectively. The best place to start with developing best practice is exploring any training and support that is available from the manufacturer. For example, ClassVR provides a range of flexible CPD, on-site and online
options that help schools to develop pedagogy with VR and AR, while empowering teachers to explore the potential of the immersive technology.

Sharing best practice case studies is also an excellent way to spark creativity and new ideas for using VR and AR, especially when teachers are just getting started with the technology. In terms of a more structured adoption programme, to help ensure any AR and VR investment is enhancing learning in a Smart Classroom, here are some approaches that schools often use.

Kickstart with orientations – if VR and AR has been introduced at the start of a new school year, kickstarting ‘back to school’ with an initial orientation session is a great way to introduce everyone to the new immersive technology. Cover basics such as how to set up the hardware and deliver a lesson.
Create VR and AR Champions – identify any teachers who are naturally curious or particularly excited about using immersive technology to enhance their lessons. Give them access to the virtual reality solutions first and let them explore the potential. They can then share their early learnings with colleagues to provide a foundation to build on.
Train the trainer – for a more formal roll out of skills, consider introducing an internal train the trainer programme, where a select number of teachers upskill to a more proficient level of using VR and AR. They can then cascade their skills and knowledge throughout the team against timelines that work for the school, and individual development objectives.

The last few decades have seen more change in the way education is delivered than in the past hundred years. Evolution of technology has been a catalyst in that shift, giving teachers access to tools which help to increase student engagement, collaboration, and attainment. As immersive technologies become more commonplace in Smart Classrooms, education is arguably on the cusp of another step change. One where geographical boundaries and financial barriers will be broken down like never before, levelling the playing field for all students to benefit from experiential learning opportunities.

Quelle:

https://www.classvr.com/blog/vr-ar-in-smart-classrooms/

20. Dezember 2023 0 comment

Examples

VIRTUAL REALITY AND AUGMENTED REALITY IN THE CLASSROOM

Technology has become a necessary element of learning in the modern world as more education facilities adopt digital teaching methods, such as interactive whiteboards, class blogs and game-based teaching.

In the near future, we expect most classrooms also to adopt virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology to simulate objects and environments, which will help children learn, as education is forecasted to be the 4th largest sector for VR investment by 2025.

VR is a computer-generated environment, perceived through a headset or helmet, that appears to be real. The immersive environment and virtual touchable objects make it easier to remember information and use knowledge in practice.

While VR is entirely virtual, AR uses real-world settings enhanced with computer-generated visuals through smartphoneapps or AR Glasses. The latter is an up-and-coming tool that will layer data and graphics on top of what we naturally see.

How AR and VR can be integrated into school subjects

Using VR and AR in the classroom can increase memory power and knowledge retention, boost excitement and engagement, and reduce distractions.

VR and AR can also create safe, controlled environments to support students with learning difficulties such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, dysgraphia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

About 93% of teachers said that their students would be excited by welcoming VR into their classrooms, so here are how some school subjects could adopt VR and AR into their lesson plans:

Maths

Using AR apps, such as Shapes 3D, students can build and measure 3D shapes anywhere they like including the classroom. This allows students to learn about each shape’s complex dimensions and properties through a digital device.

Math Ninja AR can make maths fun for younger students by incorporating physical movements such as stretching, bending, squatting, crawling and reaching to find the answer.

Geography

VR headsets allow students to explore anywhere in the world, including the Seven Wonders, the Louvre Museum, the North Pole, Machu Picchu, the Moon and Mars.

Using the National Geographic Explore VR app, students can understand how different factors can affect the geography of a location, investigate how different environments can affect how people interact with them, and examine how economics and trade differ across the world.

Literacy and Languages

VR can transport students to fantasy worlds or the scene of their book to inspire their writing or make it easier to understand a story they are reading.

AR-powered apps, such as Mondly, allow students to learn a new language or develop their existing language skills with the help of a virtual assistant. Using AR, these apps can tailor their learning plans to suit each student’s needs based on their strengths and weaknesses.

Physical Education

Whatever the weather, VR headsets can bring the sports field to the classroom so that students can practise their techniques, develop teamwork skills, and learn more about a sport and those who play it.

Science

VR apps can transform the way students learn about human and animal anatomy.

Students can virtually hold a human heart, inspect cells, and tour the human body using Complete Anatomy 2023. They can also dissect a frog and examine the body without harming an animal using VR Frog Dissection.

History

Similar to the transporting powers of VR in Geography classes, students can also use the technology as a time machine to observe significant world events, visit historical sites and immerse themselves in different eras.

Through the King Tut app, students can also view and investigate a range of historical artefacts up close, such as an Egyptian pharaoh of the 18th dynasty, Tutankhamun.

Art

VR allows students to visit famous art galleries, such as the Louvre in Paris, to see sculptures and paintings up close. It also lets students explore other art forms, such as street art.

Students can use art AR apps to create their own art and discover emerging art forms, such as 360 photography and sketching. World Brush allows students to paint by moving their device through the air, whilst Assemblr lets students create highly detailed 3D objects.

Future of Technology in the Classroom

VR and AR are empowering students to take learning beyond the classroom by offering lessons and experiences that would not be possible without these technologies.

By integrating traditional teaching methods with immersive technology, educators are on track to revolutionise how students learn and explore their world.

Quelle:

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in the Classroom

25. August 2023 0 comment