UNITY — Unity Composite High School has initiated virtual reality into teaching methods in their fine arts class, transforming the way students engage with the subject being taught.
Virtual reality is a simulated experience that employs pose tracking and 3D near-eye displayers to provide users with an immersive feel of a virtual world. VR may have started in the video gaming industry but has evolved into medical and military training.
Virtual reality was once a term used only in science fiction. Wikipedia says that the first head-mounted VR system was created in 1968.
“This year I participated in a tech PLC (professional learning community), and we discussed different ways technology can be used to enhance learning for students,” Brittany Arsenault, fine arts and PAA teacher at UCHS, says.
“The PLC was an opportunity for all staff across the division to connect about their chosen topic.”
Arsenault says she has a few students who have their own VR sets or have used them before, but the majority of her class was unfamiliar with the system.
“I am constantly looking for new ways to authentically and meaningfully engage students in learning,” Arsenault says.
“The VR sets provide an immersive learning experience that can be applicable in every subject and for any age. You can do virtual welding, follow the steps to perform a frog dissection or explore the Louvre and see Mona Lisa. The possibilities are endless and provide outstanding opportunities that are not always accessible in traditional classroom settings.
“Our students live in a digital era, so it is important to facilitate learning opportunities that meet the interests of their generation.”
The VR sets from the Living Sky School Division are Oculus Quest 2 models.
Students were excited for the opportunity to try this new teaching method as well as experience classroom instruction in virtual reality. Arsenault notes that many of the students were unaware of how developed this technology had become.
“There have been a few staff members who have tried the VR sets as well. They were equally as enthralled as the students.”
Arsenault has been using the VR sets with her Grade 7, 8 and 9 art classes. Students are currently learning about music and this technology has been a great resource in teaching rhythm and timing through two different games called Beat Sabre and Smash Drums.
“It has boosted their excitement and engagement in their learning. The best way to learn is by having fun, and the VR sets provide an immersive, unique and memorable experience for them.”
