Author: Haiting Hu
Modern technologies have created a new teaching and learning experience for educators and students in the classroom. Especially during the pandemic, the demands of distance-learning have highlighted the necessity of incorporating digital methods in education. An article in Forbes recently showed us how modern technologies such as VR and AR can “engage your senses” in a way that might not be possible with conventional teaching and learning.
Similar to photo and video, using immersive tools such as VR and AR in classrooms will help students learn abstract concepts in a more engaging and understandable way. “VR is a computer-generated environment that can be experienced from all angles” while Augmented Reality is a form of technology that lets people superimpose digital content to the real world. VR can be utilized through a computer (for example, Google Maps’ Street View) or through a headset. Virtually, students can be taken on class trips to any location, experiencing the world virtually that they otherwise may not be able to. Students can also use smartphone applications to see accurate 3D models of real objects virtually.
You can read more about the application of AR and VR technologies in education here.