Virtual reality (VR) has revolutionized the way we experience and interact with technology, and you should know that its impact is not limited to the world of games and entertainment. Virtual reality and education emerge as a powerful tool with the potential to transform both teaching and the assimilation of educational content.
Did you know what the metaverse is? It refers to a three-dimensional virtual space where people can interact with each other and with digital objects thanks to virtual reality tools. Investment in this innovation is booming.
In this article, you will explore its great advantages to improve the learning experience for students of all ages. So, immerse yourself with us in the fascinating virtual world.
What is virtual reality?
Virtual reality is a computer-generated simulation of an interactive three-dimensional environment, in which the user immerses and participates using special electronic devices.
Therefore, virtual objects and characters appear to exist and have a physical presence for the user. Given this capacity, virtual reality is making its way into more and more areas as an excellent support element.
In contrast, augmented reality (AR) superimposes digital elements onto the real world. This technology can be used with a smartphone or tablet to improve the user’s perception of reality, providing additional information. Therefore, by combining augmented and virtual reality, educators can create innovative learning experiences that go beyond traditional classroom environments.
The principles of virtual reality that you should know to understand this technology are:
- Interactive immersion
- Sensory feedback
- Presence
- Simulation and visual representation
Types of virtual reality
Different virtual reality systems provide varying degrees of immersion and interactivity. Would you like to know how the main types work? Below, you can discover it:
Desktop VR Systems
Its configuration allows users to enjoy the simulated environment sitting in front of the computer thanks to manageable devices such as headphones, electronic glasses, small motion controllers or tracking sensors.
Mobile systems
As their name indicates, these systems can be implemented in advanced smartphones to support the user in their experience. The format favors greater mobility.
High-end models
Oculus Rift and HTC Vive are examples of systems that provide a highly realistic experience, with a quality in graphics or stimuli that is incredible for those who try it.
These models have their own software that offers a variety of immersive possibilities. The economic cost is obviously higher, since more advanced equipment is necessary to use them, but it is no less intuitive. Furthermore, another requirement is to have a sufficiently powerful computer.
How does virtual reality contribute to education?
It is an invaluable tool that deepens understanding and information retention through realistic simulations. In addition, it encourages active learning by involving students in their education, stimulating their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in the environment that surrounds them.
Likewise, the application of virtual reality in education facilitates tailored learning, allowing you to progress at your own pace and preferences. Finally, it brings the real world to the classroom for all types of students despite their difficulties, in an exercise of inclusion.
Why is virtual reality important in education?
As technology evolves, virtual reality is becoming an increasingly important part. Its level of customization encourages greater engagement, which translates into better results.
The importance of virtual reality in education is evident to prepare students for their work and academic future in an increasingly digitalized era. It allows experimentation of situations that would otherwise be difficult to recreate in a traditional classroom. For example, future historians can visit ancient civilizations firsthand.
This type of experiential learning that virtual reality and education brings not only makes the subject more memorable, but also helps to develop greater empathy for different cultures, with their diverse ways of life.
In short, both the understanding and the teachings transmitted expand in every sense if you know how to combine innovative tools with the traditional educational modality.
6 advantages of virtual reality in education
Personalization of learning
Virtual reality in education opens the door to opportunities tailored to the specific needs and interests of each student, allowing for a more individualized and impactful experience.
Adaptive learning technologies are one of the ways virtual reality in education provides personalization. Using data analytics, they track progress and modify the difficulty or content of virtual experiences accordingly.
This ensures that students are tested at the appropriate level and receive accurate information. By adapting to each student’s unique learning style, virtual reality reinforces enthusiasm daily.
This is how the freedom to personalize their experience fosters a feeling of ownership and freedom, empowering them to take the reins, in what is known as autonomous learning.
Access to global resources
Virtual reality in education overcomes physical barriers and provides access to virtual libraries, museums, laboratories and experts in different fields, regardless of their geographical location. This expands learning opportunities and enriches the educational curriculum.
Significant learning
Meaningful teaching is an essential part of learning, and virtual reality technology in education can greatly enhance it. Instead of reading about scientific events or ideas, students actively participate in the process of their discovery.
This practical approach not only reinforces their understanding of the subject, but also allows them to establish meaningful connections between different concepts to later apply them in various real-world contexts. Which not only increases their grades, but also reinforces confidence and self-efficacy.
Greater participation and motivation
Immersion and stimulation are two great advantages of virtual reality in education. It brings teaching to life, making it more exciting as opposed to the usual methods.
The visual and auditory elements of this innovation easily capture the student’s attention, keeping them engaged throughout the experience. They are eager to explore the virtual world while learning.
Virtual reality and education simulations can show intricate situations that are highly stimulating, providing a unique challenge in demonstrating what has been learned.
Developing 21st century skills
Virtual reality in education provides a dynamic atmosphere that facilitates the acquisition of essential skills today. Students can sharpen their critical thinking skills, tackling complex tasks and making realistic decisions.
The practical method encourages analytical reasoning, problem-solving and adaptive skills, necessary to thrive in a constantly evolving society. But, in addition, virtual reality in education cultivates cooperation.
In virtual environments, students can work together on the same task, exchange concepts, and converse, regardless of their location. This also prepares them for an increasingly global and interconnected world.
In addition, it offers perspectives for creativity and innovation. Students can generate new items in virtual realms, unleashing their ingenuity and honing artistic talent.
By experimenting with various concepts and prototypes, a culture of invention can be fostered, as well as an entrepreneurial spirit. The goal is to encourage students to think outside the box and adopt a growth mindset, all of which are essential for success in the 21st century.
Risk reduction
Virtual reality in education is a way towards experimentation with situations that would otherwise be risky. It is possible to view wild animals in their natural habitat to get closer to biology, carry out medical training practices or certain scientific tests.
3 disadvantages of virtual reality in education
By examining and addressing these drawbacks, teachers can optimize the benefits of virtual reality in education, while ensuring an inclusive learning atmosphere for all students.
Cost
The implementation of virtual reality in educational environments can pose a significant economic burden for many centers. Purchasing the necessary hardware, such as VR headsets and computers, is a large initial outlay, not to mention the training costs to get the teaching staff used to it.
Additionally, there are other costs associated with updates and maintenance. However, it is important to consider the potential savings opportunities that virtual reality offers in education in terms of enriched experiences and less dependence on physical resources such as textbooks.
For example, students can virtually explore historical sites or travel to foreign countries without the need for expensive transportation. Additionally, money is saved on physical training facilities and equipment.
So, when considering initial costs, schools should also take into account the multiple educational benefits and improved academic outcomes to assess the true return on investment in virtual reality.
Technological barrier
The correct use of hardware and software, inadequate Internet connectivity, compatibility problems and learning curves are technological obstacles that can prevent the implementation of VR.
But the main challenge is that both teachers and students often need training and support when it comes to properly navigating virtual reality tools in education, taking full advantage of their potential.
This training requires additional resources, both temporal and monetary. However, investing in teachers’ digital preparation ultimately leads to more productive and stimulating classes.
Limited physical feedback
Despite the advanced technology involved in virtual reality, the variety of interactions that can be carried out in reality is not comparable to that offered by programmed software. Therefore, even so, it is recommended that in certain contexts physical experimentation takes place for meaningful learning.
The lack of tactile and kinesthetic response, that is, the sensation of manipulating objects, is more complicated to replicate in the virtual environment, as well as textures. On the other hand, sensory experiences such as smell or taste are directly unfeasible.
3 examples of application of virtual reality and augmented reality in education
Professional training
Future professionals can greatly take advantage of the advantages of virtual reality in their training. Using VR provides them with the practical experience and skills essential to achieving success in their chosen career.
For example, medical students practice intricate surgical procedures in a virtual operating room, gaining valuable experience without any of the risks involved with real patients.
Likewise, future engineers experiment with virtual prototypes and evaluate their designs before producing physical models. Virtual reality in professional education not only improves learning, but also self-confidence.
Pilots can also rehearse emergency procedures in a virtual cockpit, giving them the opportunity to prepare for rare, high-pressure situations. In addition to providing simulations, virtual reality in education offers the advantage of training flexibility, accessing modules at your own pace and convenience, eliminating the need for expensive physical sessions.
Ultimately, virtual reality is an invaluable tool for professional training, offering a safe, malleable and immersive learning experience for students of various disciplines.
Historical reenactments
Immersion in the past is one of the most captivating applications of virtual reality in education. Using this modern technology, students explore ancient societies, observe significant events before them, and gain a broad understanding of history.
Through interactive simulations, students can even come into contact with historical figures, visit monuments and feel part of history. It is evident that a much deeper connection is established with the content.
Students who cannot visit these historical sites in person can learn about the past thanks to virtual reality in education. Therefore, a world of possibilities opens up for those who may not have the means to travel or access to certain resources.
Virtual excursions
The impact of virtual reality on education allows you to explore the world from the comfort of the classroom. Students embark on immersive journeys to explore acclaimed landmarks, natural wonders, and culturally significant sites.
They enjoy a unique and interactive learning experience, to discover places that would otherwise be impossible to access. Virtual excursions have opened a range of educational possibilities.
Whether delving into the depths of the ocean or soaring into outer space, virtual reality in education serves to explore the unexplored, broadening your horizons and cultivating a globally minded perspective.
Additionally, they provide a safe and controlled environment for students to discover outside of dangers or limitations. They can also be adapted to the individual, allowing each student to tour according to their own interest.
Conclusions
As you have seen, revolutionizing the field of education, virtual reality provides multiple resources for both teachers and students. As a result, the experience is amplified in every way.
Unlike reality in traditional education, which is largely based on textbooks and lectures, this resource relies on the experimental. Furthermore, conventional methods often struggle to capture the learner’s attention, in contrast to the engaging nature of this technology.