Virtual Field Trips

       The K-12 world is buzzing a bout virtual reality apps. With the emerging technologies such as Google Cardboard coming at a price that cannot be beat, virtual reality is very enticing to K-12 educators as a means of engaging students in the learning content. However, the learning and instruction still needs to be authentic in order to ensure students gain a deeper understanding of the content from the virtual reality experience.

As K-12 educators look to purchase and implement virtual reality into their instruction, a few considerations should be taken into account:

• What instructional model do you want to utilize with the virtual reality? Virtual reality as a stand-alone can provide a meaningful experience, but the learning will come from instruction before, during and after the virtual reality experience. Whether the model be problem-based learning, situated cognition, or inquiry based learning, the emphasis should be on the learning and instruction and how virtual reality will enhance that instruction.
• Consider different virtual reality apps available. Virtual field trips are becoming very popular due to the success of Google Expeditions. Other apps include Discovery VR, View Master, Google Street View, and ThingLink. Pick an app that provides the experiences that align with your curriculum and standards, and is still engaging for the appropriately aged learner.

How do you get started?  Check out these resources!

• Discovery Education offers virtual field trips - some for free!  Check their archive and upcoming events
• eSchool News put together a list of ten recommended virtual field trips

See my virtual field trip research webpage for research previously conducted on virtual field trips

What ideas do you have for implementing virtual reality apps into the classroom? I discussed head-set immersive virtual reality above, but many desktop virtual reality experience exist online and are growing in popularity. Showcase your finds with links!