This totally blew my mind: there are kids meeting their virtual exchange partners on Mars.
…and that’s not just clickbaity, “keep reading” kind of hyperbole.
(But seriously, now that you’ve clicked the bait…keep reading…)
In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, technology is bridging gaps that once seemed insurmountable. And we kind of all knew that the entire landscape would shift with the ubiquitousness of AI now featured on our most pedestrian apps. So, it’s no surprise that the realms of virtual exchange are evolving quickly, too.
One of the most exciting developments is the integration of virtual reality (VR) into virtual exchanges, creating immersive and interactive experiences that were once the domain of science fiction. Think of this year’s 3 Body Problem, made popular by Netflix…well, less genocidal aliens and more awkward teens! These innovations are transforming global education, making it more engaging, equitable, and impactful. And, as you read about these exciting innovations, remind yourself that this isn’t some kind of sci-fi pulp: this is happening in real time!
The Power of VR in Education
Virtual reality allows students to step into environments they might never experience in person; for us Luddites, at its simplest, this is kids putting a phone on a headset and looking around while an app provides AR (augmented reality) and shows them their surroundings, somewhat or fully altered by some sort-of fantastic green-screen effects. Whether it’s exploring the rugged surface of Mars, standing in the cockpit of an airplane, or walking through the bustling emergency room of a hospital, VR offers an unparalleled level of immersion—and education! For some students in a few innovative virtual exchange programs, this technology is enriching their understanding of global topics, offering a tangible connection to the lessons being taught, and pretty much blowing their minds with some of the coolest moments in their classroom experience.
On a macro scale, educators saw a lot of this come out of COVID, when, because of lockdown, educators struggled to keep kids interested in global education, and many tourism, tech, and cultural organizations eagerly rose to the challenge. This approach not only enhances learning but also addresses barriers like travel costs and logistical challenges, ensuring that more students can participate in these transformative experiences–this is known. However, it also aligns with students’ interests, how they already spend their free time, and even how they see communication across the globe in their favorite Netflix shows!
One standout example comes from the UK, involving a tool that enables educators to design virtual field trips. At the University of New South Wales, educators are designing custom educational experiences using VR; they’re having their students walk through the ruins of ancient Rome, explore a coral reef teeming with life, or tour a state-of-the-art research lab—all without leaving their classrooms. These virtual experiences are more than just visually stunning; they’re tailored to meet specific learning goals. For example, a biology class could journey through the Amazon rainforest to study biodiversity, while future engineers might explore a virtual construction site to learn about design and safety. Students not only gain knowledge but also develop curiosity and empathy as they “travel” to different corners of the world, encountering ideas and perspectives far beyond the confines of their school.
Fostering Global Collaboration
When paired with virtual exchanges, VR becomes a tool for intercultural collaboration. Imagine a scenario where students in the United States and Kenya come together to solve a global issue like climate change. With VR, they can virtually “meet” in a simulated environment, such as a rainforest, a melting glacier, or, as I intimated in my clickbait intro, MARS(!!), to brainstorm solutions in real time. This shared, immersive experience fosters deeper connections and understanding between participants, making collaboration more meaningful.
One of the greatest strengths of VR-enhanced virtual exchanges is their ability to level the playing field. For example, students in rural areas who may never have the opportunity to visit a world-class museum can now explore the Louvre in Paris or the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., through VR. Similarly, aspiring medical professionals can gain early exposure to the high-pressure environment of a hospital, helping them decide if the field is right for them—all without the costs and constraints of in-person shadowing.
Companies that are already offering these services for teachers on the vanguard of this movement include (to the surprise of no one!) Google, Duke University Medical, and the multiplayer world Second Life. Here’s how:
- Google Expeditions
Google’s Expeditions program enables educators to lead students on virtual field trips using VR technology. Students can explore diverse environments—from the Great Wall of China to the depths of the ocean—enhancing their understanding of global cultures and natural wonders. This approach democratizes access to global learning experiences, especially for those unable to travel.
- TeCoLa Project
The TeCoLa (Telecollaboration for Language Acquisition) project harnesses VR and gamification to support virtual exchanges among secondary school students across Europe. By engaging in immersive virtual worlds, students practice foreign languages and develop intercultural competencies, preparing them for a globalized world.
- Virtual Reality Language Learning in Second Life
Platforms like Second Life offer virtual environments where learners can practice new languages in realistic settings. For instance, the “Teach You Teach Me” group facilitates tandem learning, allowing participants to teach each other their native languages within the virtual world, thereby enhancing linguistic and cultural understanding.
- Virtual Health Care Training with 3DiTeams
Developed in collaboration with Duke University Medical Center, 3DiTeams is a VR platform designed for medical education and team training. It simulates clinical environments where practitioners can practice trauma care and communication skills, demonstrating VR’s potential in professional virtual exchanges.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the potential of VR in virtual exchanges is immense, challenges remain. Firstly (and most obviously), the cost of VR equipment and access to high-speed internet can be prohibitive for some schools. However, as technology becomes more affordable and accessible, these barriers are steadily diminishing. Initiatives like the Erasmus+ Virtual Exchange are paving the way by integrating such tools into their programs and expanding access to students across Europe and beyond. We might dive deeper into how that’s working in another post, but if you have European colleagues, press them on their usage of technology, and how it’s changed the long-standing Erasmus in person exchange that’s such an integral part of the European education system; no doubt the strict lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 have forced a lot of innovation in that sector.
Recall, too, that most young folks now have almost all the equipment necessary to participate in Virtual Reality: through their phones! Just a headset and a downloadable app can already grant them access to virtual planes of existence. But now, many of them can even create these new worlds, through different settings in video games like Minecraft, or 3D imaging and 360 degree cameras, they could even turn their home into a VR experience with just a few videos and stills! Just think, instead of a video walkthrough of their home, your students could soon be designing an explorable virtual reality for their Level Up Village exchange partners!
Clearly, the use of VR in virtual exchanges is more than just a novelty—it’s a game-changer. By combining the power of immersive technology with the proven benefits of global collaboration, educators are preparing students to thrive in an interconnected world. These programs spark curiosity, foster empathy, and inspire students to see themselves as part of a global community.
As we look to the future, the question isn’t whether VR will become a staple of virtual exchanges, but how quickly educators and institutions can harness its full potential. For teachers, administrators, and students alike, this is an exciting time to reimagine what education can be.
Are you interested in incorporating virtual exchanges into your curriculum? Level Up Village offers tools, resources, and support to help you get started. Let’s create opportunities for students to explore the world—virtually and beyond.
