VR AT SCHOOL

Beyond Textbooks : Virtual Reality Learning Solutions for Australian Schools

Objectives:

• Introduce educators to the potential of virtual reality (VR) as a transformative tool in teaching.

• Provide hands-on experience with VR technology.

• Align VR applications with the Australian Curriculum, specifically targeting Visual Arts, Technology, and Science.

• Equip teachers with the skills and knowledge necessary to integrate VR seamlessly into their classrooms.

Agenda:

Morning Session (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM): 

Demystifying VR: (1 hour) 

• Introduction to VR technology: hardware, software, and key concepts.

• Interactive demos showcasing VR's capabilities in education.

• Discussion on the benefits and challenges of VR integration.

Curriculum Connections: (1.5 hours)

• Explore a curated collection of VR experiences aligned with the Australian Curriculum, categorized by subject and age group.

• Hands-on activity: Brainstorming VR applications within your specific curriculum areas.

Afternoon Session (1:30 PM - 4:00 PM): 

Getting Started with VR in Your Classroom: (1.5 hours)

• Choosing the right VR hardware and software for your school's needs.

• Technical considerations for classroom VR setup and management.

• Best practices for integrating VR into your lessons: planning, preparation, and post-VR activities.

Designing VR Learning Experiences: (1 hour)

• Develop engaging VR lesson plans that incorporate clear learning objectives, interactive elements, and assessment strategies.

• Practical activity: Design a short VR-based learning experience for your chosen subject area.

Wrap-up & Q&A: (30 minutes)

• Discussion and sharing of ideas for your VR classroom implementation.

• Q&A session with the workshop facilitator.

• Resource distribution: participants receive a curated list of VR apps, lesson plans, and professional development resources.

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Explain the basic principles of VR technology and its potential in education.

• Identify curriculum areas where VR can be effectively integrated.

• Access and explore VR experiences aligned with the Australian Curriculum.

• Develop a basic understanding of VR hardware and software considerations.

• Design and plan engaging VR-based learning experiences for their classrooms.

• Connect with a network of educators using VR in their teaching practice.

Workshop Materials:

• All participants will receive a comprehensive workshop manual including resources, lesson plan templates, and a curated list of VR apps.

• VR equipment will be available for hands-on exploration during the workshop.