VR & AR

Virtual Reality

Dive more into the potential of VR by reading Immersive Virtual Reality: The Next Frontier for Education

What is VR?

Virtual reality (VR) means experiencing things through our computers that don't really exist.

Virtual reality immerses a person in a digital 3D environment, instead of watching on a display. Computer-generated imagery and content aim at simulating a real presence through senses (sight, hearing, touch).

VR uses high-performance computers and sensory equipment, like headsets and gloves.

Equipment

Virtual reality simulation requires two main components: a source of content and a user device. Software and hardware, in other words. Currently such systems include headsets, all-directions treadmills, special gloves, goggles. VR tools show realistic, natural, high-quality images and interaction possibilities.

Google Cardboards are an inexpensive way to bring VR into the classroom.

Using VR in the Classroom

Google Expedition is a unique program from Google designed to bring educational virtual reality experiences into the K12 classrooms. “Google Expeditions enable teachers to bring students on virtual trips to places like museums, underwater, and outer space. Expeditions are collections of linked virtual reality (VR) content and supporting materials that can be used alongside existing curriculum. These trips are collections of virtual reality panoramas — 360° panoramas and 3D images — annotated with details, points of interest, and questions that make them easy to integrate into curriculum already used in schools.

There are HUNDREDS of Google Expeditions in VR and AR now available and shared on this spreadsheet. Here you can discover all of the virtual field trips that are available, as well as additional lesson plans and materials that are available and crowd-sourced from other teachers.

Google Expeditions Links and Resources

Google Expeditions Official Website
Google Expeditions spreadsheet (lists all the Expeditions Tours with descriptions)
Map of all of the Google Expeditions (from MrCaffrey.com)
Google Edu Expeditions Training (from the Google for Education Training Center)
Google Expeditions Support Center
Google Expeditions FAQ
Create your own Tours

Augmented Reality

AR and VR are not the same as gamers will tell you. This chart created by Richard Byrne will clarify the differences. image credit: Pixabay

The Pokemon Go phenomenon is a prime example of using Augmented Reality. It is an overlay on actual reality. It does not require anything beyond a phone, or tablet. For more information about AR and Education click the image above.

Free Augmented Reality Platforms

The Merge Cube is a inexpensive way to bring AR into the classroom. It works with any phone that can download the apps. Some, such as Mr. Body, is free and allow students to explore and learn the role of each body organ.

Home

Report abuse