New Year – New Technology for Educators: Immersive Learning

As we ring in 2024, we are almost one-quarter of the way through the 21^st century. Since the need for alternative learning methods occurred during the pandemic, students have sought different ways to improve their understanding of what they are studying. As we ring in the new year it is an opportune time for us to see what is in store for innovations in education. The focus of this blog is on immersive learning. 

Today, technology surrounds us in almost everything we do. In education, technology exists to immerse students into a learning environment with lessons and experiences that help them understand, reinforce, and retain information presented in class. This new and different learning approach uses augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to create engaging learning experiences. By using these technologies, students can explore concepts, environments, and scenarios in ways that were not available to them previously. Additionally, this AR/VR experience provides simulations that replicate the sense of performing tasks hands-on, resulting in a more comfortable and impactful learning experience. Learning becomes personalized to meet the individual learner’s needs. 

There are various applications for immersive learning across a wide range of subject areas. The teacher is only limited by their ideas and creativity as to how lessons/experiences are designed. A conceptual framework can be an excellent basis for structuring a lesson. For example, if a concept has five components, the instructor can use the Pentagon as the conceptual framework for the lesson. As students engage with the presented material, they can often recall each component by merely visualizing the Pentagon shape, which serves as a cue for remembering each part. In surveys, faculty reported they are much more creative in their teaching when using AR/VR. And students report that learning has become fun.   

Immersive learning is a fascinating and exciting technology that has the potential to transform the way we approach education. By taking the time to explore this technology and invest in the necessary equipment and resources, you can help ensure your students get the most out of their educational experience.