Teaching for Thinking in VR and AR
As the world-wide implementation of VR and AR in classrooms gathers momentum, schools from a diverse range of demographics are wanting to know how to begin their own journey in the immersive technology space. As with all new technologies, talking points begin with the practical nature of implementation and overall functionality in the classroom context. These first initial hurdles for schools seem to dominate the discussion. Common questions are framed as follows:
'Which VR/AR solution do I purchase and what is the best cost point vs quality product?’
'What support mechanisms does the school need to implement to ensure teachers gain professional development in the use of the technology?’
'How do I store, allow access and provide support for teachers to access the technology?'
Whilst these initial questions are extremely important, it is suggested that schools also begin with deeper questions to encourage discussion on how teaching for thinking might be promoted using the power of immersive technology. The aim being to empower teachers to integrate VR and AR solutions into their curriculum and pedagogy and ensure that the shiny new VR/AR tech is positioned as more than just an engagement tool. Dede (2014) has suggested that simulation technologies like VR can be powerful means for facilitating Deeper Learning.
These deep questions include:
'How might we implement VR and AR technology to ensure improvements to teaching and learning outcomes in the classroom?'
'How might we utilise VR and AR solutions according to our region or school's educational context?'
In this session a mentor vs protégé style discussion will be scaffolded to include the practicalities of VR and AR technology adoption in the classroom and examples of how VR and AR pedagogy can be constructed to promote deeper understanding and cognition. The session will include a sneak preview demonstration of the ChemCave VR resource developed by a teacher team at Mountain Creek State High School in collaboration with the University of the Sunshine Coast.
