VR allows students to be active learners
As Virtual Reality eliminates the distraction of the real world, students pay more attention to the content. The immersive and interactive experiences boost engagement and motivation. Unlike traditional methods of learning such as textbooks, videos, and lectures that encourage memorization, Virtual Reality on the other hand enables self-directed learning. In a self-directed learning environment, students identify a particular problem, navigate through the infinite number of simulations to find a solution to the problem, and finally apply the information in real life.
Moreover, VR allows students to collaborate with their peers at the same time from across the world. Further, it allows teachers to teleport students to different locations at the same time, allowing students can exchange information and ideas with one another faster than in traditional classroom settings.
VR allows students to be more empathetic
Many VR enthusiasts believe VR to be an empathetic tool. Chris Milk, a VR filmmaker said during his TED Talk, “Virtual reality connects humans to other humans in a profound way I’ve never before seen in any other form of media, and it can change people’s perception of each other.”
To illustrate further, Brock University & The Environmental Sustainability Research Centre – an academic institution & department in Southern Ontario, well known for its experiential learning and innovative research, approached XpertVR to create a virtual simulation illustrating possible future ocean climates. The project first tested how well virtual reality (VR) can be used to convey social issues and is now being used to present the impact of overfishing to the United Nations.
XpertVR created a dystopian future of ocean life in 2050. The immersive environment highlighted the seriousness of overfishing and its effects. The research study was experienced by more than 300+ students who said that such learning brought them closer to the environment.
VR allows students to explore different careers
While having a first-person experience, many students can envision different careers along with the jobs and responsibilities that come with it. For example, students can learn what it is like to be a Fireman or a Doctor, or a Scientist. According to Mel Slater, “ Virtual reality can create the illusion of a virtual body to substitute your own, which is called virtual embodiment.”
Such learning would not only boost a child’s confidence but also make him better prepared for real-world situations.