9.2 Exploring VR

EXPLORE

Explore each of the tools provided in the links below. You do not necessarily need to have a VR viewer. However, if you would like to acquire one, you can get a very basic, inexpensive version from Amazon. I purchased one of Google's Cardboard (shown here) sets for just $10.00. Most of them work with Android and iPhones 5+

Google Cardboard

Before you explore on your own, check out this excellent, 8-minute guide on how to use Google Expeditions with students. It will give you a great overview of how the product works and how to navigate it, as well as help you understand how to use with your students and colleagues.

Task

Now, you will need to explore at least one Google Expeditions:

  • You will need a smartphone or tablet and the Expeditions App (Android or iPhone)
  • Choose an Expedition you are interested in and just explore it as either a "guide" or a "student"

There are certainly other tools being created that use VR. NearPod VR, is one of them that has some excellent content. However, most of their lessons costs $2.99. View the list of lessons they have here to get some VR-inspiration!

Co-Spaces is another excellent tool for experiencing VR . But more importantly, you and your students can create your own VR experiences! Try out this tool by visiting the Gallery. I recommend checking out the Create feature too because you could have your students create their own VR. They can even code it! They can use their own images, sounds, video, etc. To use the Create feature, you will need to sign up for a free account.

Post

After you have had ample time to explore and try out VR, please post a comment about your experiences in our Today's Meet*. Include the following:

  • Name of tour(s)
  • How did you feel?
  • What did you learn?
  • What surprised you?

*Today's Meet is a "backchannel" -- a free online service chat tool that allows you to capture student voice! It can be used almost like a Twitter feed or Discussion Board tool because users can easily answer questions, provide their opinions or just chat anonymously. This allows the most introverted students a way to participate in classroom discussions. Teachers can also access a transcript for each chat, allowing them to review what students "said" and to check for understanding.

Due: May 7, 2017, 11:59 pm

Move onto 9.3 when you've completed this section.