NCTIES2023

Virtual reality (VR) is a novel tool that has been found to increase student engagement in science education. Immersive VR, using a head-mounted display, has been shown to be effective in helping improve science understanding (Ferdig, Gandolfi, and Immel, 2018) and can generate increased emotional response, strengthening feelings of engagement (Irshad and Perkis, 2020).

We have identified Biology teachers at HHS and HCAM for implementation of VR experiences integrated into their academic areas, as they can immediately benefit from the use of this technology. Currently, Hickory Public Schools owns 10 Meta Quest 2 VR devices which provide an all-in-one system for immersive learning experiences. The VictoryXR Academy is a Quest VR app which provides professionally developed mini-lessons for teachers. It includes 55 science units which encompass 250 unique VR experiences created by nationally recognized curriculum specialists, and received the Viveport Award for Best VR Education Experience.

This session will highlight our ongoing journey to implement VR experiences in our district by providing information on devices, software, device management, as well as challenges of working within a secure enterprise network. We will also provide information on how our district has been able to secure funding for device and subscription purchases. Ample time will be provided to participants to experience our current setup with provided Oculus headsets.