Utiliser la Réalité Virtuelle dans l’Éducation : L’Approche Innovante de Singapour
Study of XR in Education
Spatial Reality (SR) technologies are revolutionizing education, offering immersive and interactive environments that bridge the physical and digital worlds. A recent study from the National University of Singapore (NUS) highlights innovative applications of SR in chemistry education, with over 87.5% of students who rated the VR training as highly effective during trials. These findings underscore SR’s potential to enhance learning outcomes across disciplines.
What is Spatial Reality?
Spatial Reality encompasses Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and extended reality technologies, enabling users to interact seamlessly between physical and digital environments. By integrating these tools, educators create dynamic learning experiences that promote knowledge retention and engagement.
Benefits of Spatial Reality in Education
Studies show that SR technologies enhance learning outcomes, particularly in action-oriented and problem-solving contexts. Notable findings include:
- Improved Knowledge Retention: Meta-analyses show immersive VR is more effective than traditional methods, particularly in science education.
- Student Engagement: In trials at NUS, 64% of participants in virtual excursions reported a positive experience, highlighting the motivational power of SR tools.
Overcoming Challenges: The "VR Teaching Anxiety"
One significant barrier to SR adoption is « VR teaching anxiety, » stemming from concerns about technical proficiency and lack of institutional support. Addressing these challenges requires:
- Professional Development: Training educators to use SR tools effectively.
- Simplified Tools: Platforms like Uptale, which require no coding, make SR accessible to educators with minimal technical expertise.
Case Studies from the National University of Singapore
The NUS has demonstrated innovative applications of SR in education:
VR Sampling
Teaching environmental sampling techniques through immersive experiences
Metaverse Laboratory
An immersive virtual laboratory designed to offers a hands-on VR experience where students can practice protocols like chemical spill response and emergency handling, all in a risk-free virtual space
Crime Scene Simulations
Hands-on forensic science practice in virtual crime scenes, with 79% of students expressing positive feedback.
Virtual Excursion
Allowing students to explore international locations and environmental concepts without logistical constraints.
Metaverse for Education: A Virtual Chemistry Laboratory
The study also describes MyVirtualLab, a metaverse-inspired platform developed at NUS to teach laboratory safety and experimental techniques (like chemical spill response and emergency handling). Designed for chemistry students, it enables multi-user interactions, providing an engaging and risk-free environment for hands-on learning with Oculus Quest 3.
A study involving 16 postgraduate students in a Master of Science in Industrial Chemistry program evaluated MVL’s effectiveness for laboratory safety training, they showed a 14% improvement in safety knowledge, highlighting its effectiveness.
Enhanced 360 Video for Laboratory Inspection Training
Beyond My Virtual Lab, the VR laboratory inspection training developed using Uptale showcased a similar success in educational effectiveness:
- Standardized Training: Enabled trainees to consistently identify hazards across different laboratory setups.
- User Engagement: Participants rated the training’s effectiveness at 87.5%, with many recommending it to others.
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- Enhanced Hazard Awareness: Interactive features like quizzes, heatmaps for missed hazards, and object relocation tasks (e.g., storing chemicals correctly) improved hazard detection and practical skills
Recommandation for Educators
To harness SR’s potential, the study recommends:
- Contextualizing content with real-world applications.
- Collaborating with students to design impactful experiences.
- Engaging VR professionals for advanced educational projects.
These approaches not only enhance student engagement but also alleviate educator apprehension.
Conclusion
The National University of Singapore is at the forefront of integrating Spatial Reality into education, demonstrating its ability to transform traditional learning methods.
With insightful data pointing to increased student engagement and better knowledge retention, SR technologies offer a promising future for innovative and effective education.
