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VR workshop inspires educators to explore new methods

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VR workshop inspires educators to explore new methods
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In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, educators are increasingly turning to innovative tools to enhance learning experiences.

Faculty teaching staff have been introduced to the potential of using Virtual Reality (VR) in the classroom, in a popular workshop delivered in HELIX, the University's learning innovation hub.

The session, Getting Started with VR in Teaching, covered the following key aspects of using the technology in teaching practices:

  • The theory behind VR in education
  • Pedagogical principles for immersive learning
  • Practical use cases in teaching
  • Subject-specific strategies for integrating VR into the curriculum
  • Tackling common challenges in VR adoption
  • Implementation pathways for educators

Dr. Gabriel Jones, Senior Learning Technologist and co-host of the workshop, highlighted the enthusiasm amongst staff, saying: “It was great that the event booked up so quickly with representation from every faculty.

We received some fantastic feedback, with participants appreciating the opportunity to try a wide range of VR resources and gain insight into how VR can enhance their teaching.”

Real-world applications of VR in teaching

During the session, attendees explored a number of VR applications already in use at the University, including:

Awake Heart

Used in the School of Medicine, the Awake Heart programme enables students to navigate a 3D representation of the human heart and circulatory system. Interactive quizzes and activities reinforce learning beyond simple exploration.

Autism TMI

This immersive experience provides insight into sensory overload from the perspective of individuals with autism, fostering empathy and deeper understanding among students.

VR News Day

The VR News Day experience takes Journalism students into a simulated crime scene where they can practice investigative reporting, conduct interviews, and write articles, simulating real-world fieldwork in a controlled environment.

Participant feedback

Participants found the workshop insightful and inspiring, with feedback including:

  • "Very well explained from [workshop hosts] Gabriel and Josh. Nice to have seen such a range of VR scenarios."
  • "The session provided a tremendous sense of possibilities and empowerment."
  • "Now I know how to get started, I'll look at how to find a resource to incorporate into my teaching."

Curious about VR?

Explore HELIX, the learning innovation hub at the University of Leeds