The Transformation of Education in the Metaverse

by Tom Misch
in News, VR
on 20 November 2023

The rise of the metaverse is set to completely transform education as we know it. This doesn’t just apply to formal education in schools and universities, but also extends to workplace learning and lifelong learning. Here we explore three key ways in which education is evolving in the metaverse era.

1. Immersive Learning with Extended Reality (XR) Technologies

Extended Reality (XR) technologies, including augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), are set to revolutionize education. These immersive technologies are an integral part of the metaverse experience. VR allows students to immerse themselves in virtual worlds, while AR brings digital elements into the physical environment.

AR is particularly effective in classrooms as it brings subjects to life by overlaying graphics and animations onto real-world objects, making learning interactive and engaging. On the other hand, VR can transport students to different places and times, offering unique learning experiences. For example, the Google Expeditions app enables students to explore historic sites, scientific phenomena, and natural wonders through immersive simulations.

By engaging students through experiential learning, XR technologies enhance knowledge retention and make education more impactful. Research suggests that learning through experience can significantly increase knowledge retention by up to 90%.

2. Transition to Hybrid Learning Environments

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the potential of remote learning, and its impact will extend beyond the crisis. In the metaverse era, education will increasingly adopt a hybrid approach, combining in-person classroom instruction with virtual learning environments.

Metaverse platforms like Roblox have already embraced this concept by offering virtual classrooms for remote learning. Teachers and students can participate from anywhere, using user-generated worlds within Roblox to recreate historical events or conduct physics simulations.

One example of a hybrid model is Dallas Hybrid Prep, a high school that utilizes the STEMuli educational metaverse platform. Students can access the platform remotely, engaging in game-style assignments alongside their virtual avatars. This approach offers greater flexibility and expands learning opportunities beyond physical boundaries.

3. Workplace Training in the Metaverse

The metaverse also holds tremendous potential for transforming employee training in organizations. In addition to virtual classroom training, virtual simulations can provide immersive and realistic learning experiences.

The metaverse allows employers to create custom training scenarios that simulate real-world situations in a safe and controlled environment. For instance, customer service training can be conducted in a virtual store with virtual customers, while health and safety lessons can utilize hazardous virtual environments. Even complex engineering processes can be taught by taking employees “inside” the inner workings of machinery.

BP, for example, has implemented VR training at its oil refinery in Hull, England. The company collaborated with Igloo Vision to develop a large VR simulator in the shape of a six-meter igloo. This immersive experience allows employees to practice critical safety tasks in an extremely detailed replica of the plant, ensuring they are prepared for real-world situations.

In conclusion, as the metaverse continues to evolve, education will undergo a significant transformation. XR technologies will make learning more immersive and experiential, hybrid learning environments will become the norm, and organizations will utilize virtual simulations for effective workplace training. The metaverse holds immense potential to revolutionize education at every level and empower individuals with knowledge and skills in ways we have never seen before.

FAQ:

Q: What is the metaverse?
A: The metaverse refers to a virtual reality space that encompasses multiple interconnected digital worlds, where people can interact with each other and the environment.

Q: How are extended reality (XR) technologies revolutionizing education?
A: XR technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) enhance education by providing immersive and interactive learning experiences.

Q: What is the difference between AR and VR?
A: AR overlays virtual elements onto the real world, while VR creates a fully immersive virtual environment.

Q: How can AR be useful in classrooms?
A: AR brings subjects to life by overlaying graphics and animations onto real-world objects, making learning interactive and engaging.

Q: How can VR enhance learning experiences?
A: VR can transport students to different places and times, offering unique learning experiences and simulations.

Q: What is hybrid learning?
A: Hybrid learning combines in-person classroom instruction with virtual learning environments, utilizing both physical and digital spaces for education.

Q: How can organizations use the metaverse for workplace training?
A: The metaverse allows organizations to create custom training scenarios and simulations that provide immersive and realistic learning experiences.

Q: Can you give an example of how VR training is being used in the workplace?
A: BP has implemented VR training at its oil refinery in Hull, England, using a large VR simulator to allow employees to practice critical safety tasks.

Key Terms:
– Metaverse: A virtual reality space that encompasses multiple interconnected digital worlds.
– Extended Reality (XR): Technologies that include augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).
– Augmented Reality (AR): Technology that overlays digital elements onto the real world.
– Virtual Reality (VR): Technology that creates a fully immersive virtual environment.
– Hybrid Learning: An approach to education that combines in-person classroom instruction with virtual learning environments.
– Workplace Training: Training and development programs provided in organizations to enhance employee skills and knowledge.
– Simulations: Replicas or models that mimic real-world situations to provide practical learning experiences.