Education students explore virtual reality

Students in Dr. Donna Governor's middle grades science education class traveled the world and even the universe this spring through virtual reality goggles that helped them learn how to use technology to aid their teaching.  

They journeyed to the center of the Earth, hopped in a rising weather balloon and explored other planets through the cutting-edge technology that enhanced the usual online course experience.

"If we're going to train the teachers of tomorrow, we need to look at what they're going to be using tomorrow," Governor said.  

Governor, an associate professor of science education and gifted programs coordinator, helped develop early internet-based curriculum funded by the National Science Foundation 30 years ago, and now she is grateful to be on the leading edge of how virtual reality goggles can open new worlds for her students.  

Hannah Fleming, a junior from Duluth, Georgia, pursuing a degree in middle grades education, usually can't stand online classes. This class flipped that experience for her. 

"The virtual reality was far more engaging than a normal online class," Fleming said. "We were talking with each other and doing things together like we would in a normal classroom." 

She appreciated how Governor provided the UNG students with tools to engage their future students. 

"I am more interested in allowing students to unplug in my classroom, but I also know technology is a very present aspect of their lives," Fleming said. "Attention spans have gotten so short, and technology is sometimes one of the only ways to pull them in." 

Melina Allan, a sophomore from Clermont, Georgia, pursuing a degree in middle grades education, particularly enjoyed class meetings where the group explored the Hoover Dam and rainforests. 

"These are things I would never see otherwise," Allan said. "It was a nice change. Even in an in-person class, you're not going to experience something like that." 

She also knows that using these types of virtual reality has a chance to enhance the learning for her students.  

"This generation is very consumed by technology, so it is definitely going to make them more engaged and excited to learn about something," Allan said.

Dr. Sheri Hardee, dean of UNG's College of Education, said it is important that students have a chance to use this technology.

"As our teacher candidates note, it is vital that we remain current with digital pedagogy and technology integration in K-12 classrooms," Hardee said. "For many students, this type of technology may provide access to worlds that might otherwise only be explored through written or visual texts, not allowing for direct interaction. The ability to have an immersive educational experience through VR can change the educational landscape for many of our K-12 students."