On April 17, 2024, the third day of the VIRION Face-to-Face Training focused on two additional Virtual Reality (VR) applications: Biology and Physics. These sessions continued to build on the practical learning from previous days, allowing participants to delve into how VR can make complex STEM topics more accessible and interactive.Practices with Apps III and IV: Physics and Biology.
The morning began with an informal coffee session, providing participants an opportunity to reflect on the progress so far and exchange ideas before diving into the day’s activities.
- Physics VR Application: Participants explored an escape-room-style environment, where they solved puzzles involving electrical circuits and magnetism. By engaging in tasks like measuring magnetic fields and completing circuits, attendees experienced how this tool can teach fundamental physics concepts in a hands-on and engaging way.
- Biology VR Application: Set in the Tree of Life, this application guided participants through constructing prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. By identifying and assembling cell components such as ribosomes, mitochondria, and the cell membrane, attendees learned how this VR tool provides an interactive approach to understanding cellular biology.
Both sessions allowed participants to test the applications, discuss their experiences, and share observations about their potential classroom use. The activities showcased how VR tools can bridge theory and practice, making STEM subjects more approachable for students.
Collaboration and Feedback
The afternoon was dedicated to open discussions and feedback. Participants worked together to identify strategies for integrating VR into their teaching contexts, addressing logistical considerations like curriculum alignment, lesson planning, and classroom resources. The collaborative nature of these discussions emphasized the importance of adapting tools to meet the needs of diverse educational environments.
Cultural Visit to the Reina Sofía Museum
The day concluded with a visit to the Reina Sofía Museum, where participants had the chance to unwind and explore some of Spain’s most iconic art. Highlights included Picasso’s Guernica, offering a moment of reflection and cultural enrichment after an intense day of learning.
Day 3 balanced practical engagement with collaborative reflection and cultural exploration, further deepening participants’ understanding of how VR can transform STEM education. As the training approaches its conclusion, the final day will focus on evaluation, planning, and preparing for the next steps in implementing the VIRION project. Stay tuned!