The basic methods for teaching philosophy are relatively simple. It involves things like lecturing, explaining concepts, discussing thought experiments etc. These methods, more or less, remain constant across all levels of philosophical education. Through honing our craft, we can become artisans of philosophical education, making use of a minimal number of tools to articulate complex ideas. But, this artisan method also potentially neglects modalities of learning experience that may help us to further not only our students' education, but also to further our own philosophical work. So, how do we maintain the best parts of the artisan method, while also reaching beyond? 

I think we can look to the playbook of chefs that practice molecular gastronomy - especially, but not exclusively, their use of innovative techniques, immersion, and multi-modal experiences to transform something that we do everyday (sit down to have a meal) into an inspiring (sometimes life-changing) experience. Making use of virtual reality provides us with opportunities for incorporating innovation, immersion, and multi-modal experience into our courses. It allows us to articulate ideas in ways that transcend the traditional classroom environment.  

Traditional teaching methods predominantly rely on passive learning methods. These methods, though, can impede student learning, interest and enthusiasm as they can often give the wrong impression about philosophy. That is, that philosophy is stuffy, or dry, and unfortunately, that philosophy is uninteresting. Perhaps more importantly, not every student will thrive intellectually, or engage authentically, in this sort of environment. I find myself preoccupied with the question of how to reach students in a way that not only meets them where they are, but also confronts them with the task of thinking rigorously about philosophy. I think an important part of cultivating interest here is making the content of the class, and the subsequent work that the students do, feel significant or consequential to them. 

Virtual Reality offers the ability to meet all of these challenges, while also being at the forefront of technological advancements in education. I have integrated virtual reality into my pedagogy as a means to enhance students’ learning experience, foster critical thinking, deeply immerse students in philosophical inquiry (drawing attention to the ubiquity of philosophy), as well as actively engage students in learning. 

Below is information on a course I teach on virtual reality.