Here at Hydrogen Safe, we collaborate with industry leaders to develop digital assets which can be integrated into Virtual Reality (VR) technology. In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, traditional teaching methods are being complemented and sometimes even replaced by innovative technologies such as VR. Particularly in the UK, VR is making significant strides in educational settings, offering new avenues for engagement and comprehension, especially for young people who struggle within the confines of conventional classrooms.
The Emergence of Virtual Reality in Education
Virtual Reality immerses users in a simulated environment, providing a sensory experience that can make learning more engaging and interactive. This can either be applied through individual headsets or Cave Automatic Virtual Environments (CAVEs) which are rooms with projected images that immerse students into the learning environment.
Benefits of VR for Students Struggling in Traditional Classrooms
Enhanced Engagement:
VR can capture students’ attention in ways traditional methods often cannot. The immersive nature of VR can make subjects come alive, transforming passive learning into an active and engaging experience. For students who find it difficult to focus during lessons, VR provides a captivating alternative that can hold their attention and stimulate their interest.
Interactive Learning:
The interactive aspect of VR allows students to learn by doing. For instance, instead of merely reading about a hydrogen pipeline, students can explore it in a virtual environment, interacting with different sites and equipment alongside a trainer talking you through the whole process. This hands-on approach can be particularly beneficial for kinaesthetic learners who grasp concepts better through physical interaction.
Individualised Pace:
In a traditional classroom, teachers must cater to a wide range of abilities and learning speeds, often leading to some students falling behind. VR enables students to learn at their own pace, revisiting complex topics as needed without feeling the pressure of keeping up with their peers. This personalised learning experience can boost confidence and improve overall understanding.
Safe Learning Environments:
VR creates a safe space for students to experiment and make mistakes without real-world consequences. For example, in a virtual chemistry session to learn about the hydrogen element, students can conduct experiments without the risk of dangerous reactions. This freedom to explore and learn from errors can foster a deeper understanding and encourage creative problem-solving.
Inclusive Education:
VR can make education more inclusive by accommodating different learning needs. Students with disabilities or those who find it hard to adapt to traditional classroom settings can benefit immensely from VR. For instance, virtual field trips can bring inaccessible locations to students with mobility issues, ensuring they don’t miss out on enriching experiences.
Case Studies and Success Stories
Several colleges and educational institutions in the UK are already leveraging VR to enhance learning outcomes. For example, Hydrogen Safe partnered with Hopwood Hall College and Inspection and Consultancy Services (IACS) to capture 360-degree digital assets of a hydrogen pipeline installation. The college now uses our VR technology to enhance the hydrogen qualifications embedded within their Construction Technician Apprenticeship programme.
Similarly, Hydrogen Safe and International Gas Detectors Ltd partnered with ARK Immersive to create digital resources for a 3D immersive learning module on hydrogen gas detection at East Sussex College. This module will be integrated into the training curriculum for apprentices in gas detection. The project includes capturing on-site footage of real-life scenarios depicting hydrogen gas hazards, rescue operations, and a comprehensive site walkthrough.
The Future of VR in UK Education
As technology continues to advance, the potential applications of VR in education are bound to expand. The UK government and educational bodies are recognising the importance of integrating such technologies into the curriculum, aiming to equip students with the skills needed for the future workforce.
To find out more about Hydrogen Safe’s virtual reality capabilities, here is a promotional video of the creation of digital assets of a hydrogen pipeline installation.
Stay tuned for more!
