The Rise of Immersive Technology in Education

Virtual reality (VR) involves immersing users in computer-generated environments that simulate real-world settings. Despite its futuristic appeal, VR has roots tracing back further than many realise – with early prototypes emerging as far back as the 1950s. Over the ensuing years, advancements in software and technology have led to gradual enhancements in interface design and device capabilities.

Today, VR finds applications across diverse educational fields, yet its complete potential is yet to be fully realised. When discussing VR, it’s essential to differentiate it from related concepts:

• VR (Virtual Reality) is a fully artificial digital environment that blocks out the physical world entirely.
• AR (Augmented Reality) overlays digital content onto the real world, enhancing users’ perception of their surroundings.
• MR (Mixed Reality) merges real and virtual worlds, allowing digital and physical objects to coexist and interact in real time.
• XR (Extended Reality) is an umbrella term encompassing all immersive technologies, including VR, AR, and MR.

Why Use VR and AR in STEAM Education?

Let’s address this upfront: VR is not intended to replace conventional education nor is it appropriate for every scenario. This technology should be considered as an additional tool to enhance education across various disciplines, rather than replacing conventional teaching methods. Many professionals working in the XR space have vocally criticised teachers for using PowerPoint. I am not one of those! There’s nothing wrong with a good PowerPoint and some quality explicit instruction.

One of the most significant benefits of VR is its ability to engage students. It introduces a novel element to the classroom, serving as a powerful catalyst for learning by immersing students in experiences. With VR, students can participate in events rather than merely reading about them or watching them unfold on video.

Unlike other media, VR can invoke vivid memories, create immersive sensory experiences, and foster empathy and emotional connections. This makes VR particularly valuable in fields where evoking strong emotions or recognising and addressing them is key.

Additionally, VR excels in making abstract concepts tangible and comprehensible. It can transport students inside complex scientific phenomena to observe processes, immerse them in pivotal historical events or places, or introduce them to individuals impacted by environmental issues or global crises.

The Erosion of Enrichment in Schools

The number of senior leaders reporting educational visits being cut rose to 50% in 2023 (up from 21% the previous year) according to The Sutton Trust. Absence and school avoidance are increasing, and more pupils are presenting as disengaged. How do we get them to lean into the curriculum?

The Solution: Affordable, Inspirational Learning Experiences

Even in a thriving school with a vibrant curriculum, most students will never get the chance to visit historical sites like The Acropolis or the natural wonders of the world. Now they can! VR workshops for schools transport entire classes to the most fascinating and awe-inspiring destinations for the price of one class hiring a bus for a local visit!

When to Use VR in the Classroom

Before committing significant time to preparing a VR class, we recommend a moment of reflection. Ask yourself, “Why incorporate VR?”

Will it truly add value for the students, or could the same objectives be more effectively achieved using conventional methods? This introspective approach ensures that the integration of VR into your curriculum is purposeful and genuinely enriches the educational experience.

If you decide to incorporate VR into your teaching, the next step is to clearly outline your goals and objectives. These could focus on delivering specific course-related knowledge to students or developing transferable skills that are valuable across various subjects.

Practical Considerations for VR Sessions

Session Structure

Preparing for a VR teaching session demands meticulous planning and coordination. There are numerous components to consider, and even well-planned sessions can encounter unexpected issues. Prepare thoroughly and always have a backup plan in place.

Session Length

To avoid overwhelming students and to maximise the impact of the VR experience, consider conducting short periods of time int he headsets with plenty of screen breaks for discussion.

Safety First

• Unless the VR experience specifically recommends standing, advise participants to remain seated.
• Encourage students to keep hand and leg movements minimal to prevent accidental strikes or falls.
• Motion sickness can occasionally ocur depending on the type of content. Inform students about it and instruct them to remove the VR headset at the first sign of discomfort.
• Implement a “buddy” system where students are paired to monitor each other.
• Before any VR session, ensure that the area is clear of obstacles that could pose a risk.

STEAM Applications for VR and AR

Science

Immerse students in molecular structures, explore inside a human body, witness chemical reactions at the atomic level, or travel through space to distant planets.

Virtual Experiments: Allow students to conduct experiments that would be too dangerous, expensive, or impossible in a regular classroom.

Technology

Students can explore complex technological systems, disassemble virtual machinery, or learn coding through immersive, interactive environments.

Virtual Coding: Some VR applications allow students to see their code brought to life in 3D space, making abstract programming concepts more concrete.

Engineering

Create, test, and refine engineering designs in a virtual space before building physical prototypes.

Virtual Prototyping: Students can build virtual bridges, buildings, or machines and test them against various conditions.

Arts

Explore famous museums and galleries from around the world, create 3D sculptures, or immerse in historical artistic periods.

Creative Expression: VR offers new canvases for artistic expression, allowing students to create art in three dimensions.

Mathematics

Visualise complex mathematical concepts, interact with 3D shapes, or solve problems in immersive environments.

Geometry Exploration: Students can manipulate 3D shapes and understand geometric principles through direct interaction.

Our VR Workshops for Schools

Our virtual reality workshops are primarily focused on history, science and geography. Some of our most popular sessions include:

Rainforests

Journey through the world’s most diverse ecosystem as we explore the Amazon Rainforest’s distinct layers, from the dark forest floor to the towering emergent layer. Encounter incredible wildlife and discover how each species thrives in this complex habitat.

Ancient Rome

Step back in time through Ancient Rome’s grandest sites. Journey from the opulent villas of Palatine Hill to the bustling Forum’s marketplace and temples. Become a spectator at the Circus Maximus and explore the streets of Pompeii before descending into the Colosseum’s underground chambers.

Earth and Space

Journey from Earth to the cosmos in stunning virtual reality. Witness stellar nurseries where new stars burst into life and join scientists hunting distant exoplanets. Stand alongside Curiosity on Mars’s red surface, glide through Saturn’s majestic rings, and understand our cosmic dance as Earth, Sun and Moon align in spectacular eclipses.

Mountains

Embark on an epic mountain expedition across the globe. Scale icy crevasses on Everest’s Khumbu Icefall, soar over Mont Blanc’s snow-capped summits by paraglider, and gaze up at Yosemite’s towering granite monoliths. Experience fold, block, dome and volcanic mountains in stunning virtual reality.

Climate Change

Witness the dramatic impact of our warming world. Trek across shrinking Arctic ice with endangered polar bears, watch vibrant rainforests transform into farmland, and dive into bleaching coral reefs. Experience firsthand how climate change threatens Earth’s most fragile ecosystems.

After the VR Experience

To maximise the educational value of VR experiences, consider implementing complementary activities that encourage deep reflection and critical thinking:

Guided reflection

After a VR session, facilitate guided reflection with specific questions related to the VR content, asking students to connect the experience with course materials.

Group discussion

Organise small group discussions where students can share their insights and diverse perspectives.

Reflection papers

Consider assigning students to write reflection papers where they analyse their VR experience in the context of the curriculum.

Project-based assignments

Extend the learning from the VR session into a project-based assignment where students can apply what they have learned in a practical, creative way.

Our Guarantee

• All sessions are led by Justin, an inspiring, highly experienced and effective teacher.
• Pupils will be left in awe with lasting knowledge based on your specific curriculum requirements.
• Well-considered adaptations will be made for pupils with SEND.
• Your pupils are safe. Our Red Box system acts as its own closed network loop, so it is completely offline. Justin has been a designated safeguarding lead for the last 10 years and has expert knowledge of all aspects of safeguarding.
• The booking process will be fast and simple. Once we’ve agreed a date, you will receive all the paperwork you require in one tidy email.

What Schools Say About Our VR Workshops

“We had a brilliant day with EduPeople VR! The sessions were incredibly well-organised, and Mr Peoples was both knowledgeable and engaging, making the day enjoyable and inspiring for all our KS2 pupils. Each year group had a unique and immersive adventure and the children were captivated and thoroughly enjoyed every moment. This was an unforgettable experience that brought learning to life – we highly recommend EduPeopleVR to other schools!” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Alice Thompson, Handale Primary School

“We recently had the pleasure of experiencing a VR session with Edu People VR, and from start to finish, the experience was like no other – highly recommend! Justin was informative, friendly and patient, answering all the children’s questions with clarity and enthusiasm. His knowledge about VR headsets and creating content combined with his patient approach, ensured everyone felt comfortable and included (especially with our students who have sensory and/or additional learning needs). The session wasn’t just entertaining; it was genuinely educational and the children were left wanting more! A wonderful balance of fun and learning… an unforgettable experience!” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Georgia Mutch, Applegarth Primary School

Ready to Transform Your Curriculum?

Our mission is to enhance and enrich your curriculum using immersive technology. We deliver VR workshops for schools in North Yorkshire, Tees Valley, County Durham and North East England.

Our VR workshops draw on almost 15 years of teaching and leadership experience to create unforgettable educational experiences that students don’t just observe—they feel and live.

While students embark on their virtual adventures, teachers gain valuable professional development opportunities, discovering innovative ways to incorporate immersive technology and oracy strategies into their daily practice.

Book Your VR Workshop Today!

Do you know creative primary teachers or curriculum leaders who would love to revolutionise their classroom experience? Our immersive VR workshops bring learning to life!

Contact us today to discuss how we can support your curriculum goals and give your students an unforgettable learning experience.

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Transform your classroom into a world of wonder with EduPeopleVR!