Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are quickly changing the way we learn. They allow us to experience information in a new and engaging way, making it easier to remember and retain information. AR and VR have already revolutionized how we learn about the world around us. They are also being used for education in fields such as medicine, engineering, architecture, and law. Here are some ways AR and VR are revolutionizing learning:
It creates a positive learning environment
AR and VR in education make learning immersive, interactive, and memorable. As research by Sciencedirect has shown, the learning environment is not only about physical space—it’s also about how students feel when they are in that space. To create a positive learning environment, students must be able to connect with their peers and teachers, and the physical classroom should be well-lit, clean, and inviting. The environment must also be safe and respectful, free from distractions and inappropriate behavior.
Of course, achieving such a magical state of harmony can be challenging for any teacher or school staff member—and even more so for those who lack the tools to manage student activities in real-time. However, AR VR technology can help educators create an environment where every student feels encouraged and empowered to learn.
Harness the power of the senses to fully engage students
The human brain is an incredible, complex machine. It uses all five senses to learn, process, and store information – sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. In fact, the more of our senses we use when learning something new or solving a problem, the more likely it is that we will remember it later. But when it comes to education today, how often do we leverage more than two of our senses in a classroom? How often do students get to truly ‘experience’ what they are learning about?
By engaging each sense during the learning experience – sight (visual), sound (auditory), touch (kinesthetic), and smell (when possible!) – You create engagement opportunities for students with many different preferences. Some people prefer visual learning; others enjoy auditory processing or being able to physically examine an object. By varying your approach and using different stimuli during your lesson planning, you can better engage every person in your class.
Virtual Reality technology gives us the ability to engage multiple senses at once because it immerses learners within largely realistic digital environments while removing distractions from their physical surroundings.
Simulation training is key - whether it’s on-the-job or in the classroom
In this new digital-first environment, simulation training is key - whether it’s on the job or in the classroom. And as technology continues to advance, it will become increasingly popular.
Simulation training takes the traditional concept of a textbook and makes it interactive, immersing students in the topics they’re learning about. Using virtual reality or augmented reality headsets, students can be transported anywhere from the inside of a classroom to an operating room for surgery. They can practice procedures and make mistakes without consequence. This type of experiential learning is proven to be more effective at knowledge retention than simply reading about what happens in real life.
The teacher also has access to data that can help them identify areas where their students are struggling, so they can go back and review those concepts with their class. With virtual or augmented reality, teachers have more ways than ever to ensure that no student is falling behind because they didn’t “get” something the first time around.
Conclusion
In recent years, both technologies have come a long way and are now used in more ways than ever before. AR and VR allow users to interact with their environments in unique ways, which makes learning experiences memorable as well as effective. With its growing popularity, it is likely that AR VR will be used in the classroom to help improve students by various means.