How can virtual reality experiences be accomplished remotely?
“VR creates real-world contexts for students. At a time when educators and students are physically distanced, leveraging digital options to create connected learning experiences is more important than ever. Now, with school closures, VR brings the world not just into the classroom but also the home. Some resources require no special equipment aside from a computer, tablet or phone.”
—Jennie Kristoffersen, chief academic officer, Nearpod
“VR experiences are becoming increasingly accessible. With just a smartphone, one can easily have access to some VR content. In times like this, it can be easy for students to think that globalization is a myth. With virtual trips and online multiuser sessions, schools can show students that we can make use of technology advancement to stay connected digitally, collaborate remotely across borders and combat a global crisis like this together.”
—Yuan Yi, producer and techno-social innovation strategist, Hiverlab
“Connecting students to their school community through virtual meet-ups, especially in this unprecedented time, is essential, as most thrive on sharing their ideas and experiences with their classmates. Providing access to online hubs and communication platforms with navigable structures, clear goals and a concise sets of resources offer manageable and meaningful learning journeys.”
– Audra Wallace, editorial director of Scholastic News Editions 3-6, Scholastic
“Using almost any device, students can access virtual tours. And if they have access to a VR headset, they can have a more immersive experience. Students can use a web browser to connect to online platforms. They can take virtual museum tours, explore other cities and even create their own VR experiences by using Google Tour Creator for free from National Geographic, Discovery Education, the New York Times, Google Arts and Culture and YouTube’s VR channel.”
— Ed Gillispie, VP and general manager of North America public sector, Lenovo
Read the other stories in DA’s series on VR field trips:
4 best practices for taking students on virtual field trips
Where to find the right network support
How to get teachers comfortable with the technology
31 apps and websites—some of them free—for virtual field trips
