Group Blog links:
Eric Ding : https://ericdingedci339.opened.ca/
Hasan Sheikh : https://hsedci339.opened.ca/
Introduction:
In our previous posts, we explored what virtual reality (VR) is, how it is currently being used in education, and some of the challenges associated with introducing the technology into the classroom environment. While these discussions helped us understand both the potential and limitations of VR, it is also important to compare VR learning with the methods that students already use today. Traditional classroom learning and online learning remain the two most common educational formats, so looking into how VR differs from them can provide a better understanding of where VR would be the most effective. This comparison can also help determine if VR should be viewed as a replacement for the existing learning methods or as a tool that attempts to enhance them.
Learning Experience and Engagement
Traditional classroom learning provides students with face-to-face interaction, immediate feedback from instructors, and opportunities to collaborate directly with classmates. These social interactions can help students stay engaged and receive timely support. Online learning offers more flexibility though, allowing students to access materials and learn from almost anywhere. However, because online courses often rely on recorded lectures and video calls, some students may find them less engaging than in-person classes.
VR learning differs from both of these learning formats by creating immersive environments where students can interact directly with learning materials. Rather than only reading about a concept or watching a demonstration, students can explore virtual spaces and practice skills in a more hands-on method. This level of immersion can increase learner engagement and make learning more memorable. This is especially true for subjects that involve practical experiences or visualizations. However, the effectiveness of VR still depends on the quality of the technology and how well the learning course is designed.
Access and Flexibility
Traditional learning requires students to attend classes in person at a specific time and location. This may be difficult for students who work, travel, or live far from campus. Online learning is more flexible because students can access course materials from different locations and may be able to complete some activities on their own schedule.
VR can also allow students to access learning experiences from different locations. However, it may be less accessible than regular online learning because students need a headset, software, enough physical space, and sometimes a strong computer or internet connection. This means VR can create new learning opportunities, but it can also create barriers for some students.
Best Uses for Each Method
Each learning method may work better for different activities. Traditional learning is useful for discussions, group work, presentations, and receiving direct support from an instructor. Online learning is useful for recorded lectures, independent study, and students who need more flexibility.
VR may be most useful for simulations, virtual field trips, science models, and training in areas such as healthcare and engineering. It can allow students to practise skills or explore places that may be difficult, expensive, or unsafe to experience in real life. However, for a normal lecture, reading, or discussion, traditional or online learning may be easier and more practical.
Connection to Distributed and Open Learning
VR builds on the idea of distributed and open learning by adding a more immersive and interactive environment for learners. Students can participate in simulations, virtual field trips, and other collaborative learning activities that allow for more interactivity. This can help create a greater sense of engagement and presence than traditional online learning. To be more specific, some activities could include exploring historical sites in VR, conducting virtual science experiments, or practicing healthcare procedures without any possible harm to a patient while still being educated in a meaningful way.
However, VR should only be used as a tool to support existing learning approaches rather than to replace them. For one, virtual reality is only virtual, so while students can access VR as an option, they should also be given the option to experience learning in person in field trips or from real science experiments that allow students to better apply their learning. Additionally, open learning means reducing barriers to education often requires more specialized hardware and software, reliable internet access, and sufficient physical space. This means that these requirements create concerns regarding equity and limit access for some students. Therefore, concerns about cost, accessibility, and technology must first be addressed for VR to fully align with open learning principles.
Reflection
Overall, traditional, online, and VR learning each have their own strengths and weaknesses. I do not think VR should replace traditional or online learning. Instead, it can be used as an additional learning tool when it provides an experience that would be difficult to create in another way.