On April 16, 2024, the second day of the VIRION Face-to-Face Training focused on hands-on exploration of two Virtual Reality (VR) applications: Mathematics and Chemistry. These sessions provided participants with practical insights into how VR can enhance STEM education by making abstract concepts more interactive and engaging.
The day began with an informal coffee session, allowing attendees to reflect on the previous day and connect with fellow participants. This relaxed start set the tone for the more intensive sessions that followed.
Practices with Apps I and II: Mathematics and Chemistry
The morning sessions centered around two VR applications:
- Mathematics VR Application: Participants worked with this app to manipulate geometric shapes in an immersive environment, learning how students can explore spatial relationships and visualize complex structures. The app’s interactive features demonstrated how VR can help make geometry more tangible and accessible for learners.
- Chemistry VR Application: This application took participants into a virtual mine, where they navigated through galleries representing families of the periodic table. They explored how students can use this tool to understand elemental properties and relationships in an engaging and hands-on way.
Both sessions included time for participants to use VR headsets, experience the applications, and discuss their observations with peers. These practical activities were complemented by group discussions about how to integrate these tools into classroom settings, ensuring alignment with curricula and teaching goals.
Afternoon Reflections and Cultural Activity
In the afternoon, the group came together to share feedback, raise questions, and discuss strategies for addressing challenges encountered during the sessions. This collaborative exchange was a key part of the day, fostering a deeper understanding of how to effectively use VR in education.
The day concluded with a visit to Madrid Río, a redevelopment project that has transformed a large area of the city. Guided by project colleague Benjamin Dally, participants learned about the complexities and challenges involved in such an ambitious initiative. The cultural activity provided a moment to unwind while exploring an inspiring example of urban innovation.
Day 2 successfully blended practical learning with collaborative reflection, leaving participants eager to continue exploring VR applications in the days ahead. Stay tuned for updates as we delve into Biology and Physics tools on Day 3!