A Home Far Away: Virtual Field Trips as a Tool for Socially Conscious Science Education (Poster 43)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Two
  In Poster Session: Technology-Based Environments and Engagement

Abstract

Science teachers have increasingly adopted technology to support their learning goals. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as one such instrument to support students’ learning experiences. We used VR to create biology-focused virtual field trips (VFT) that students participated in from their classrooms. Through n= 58 post-interviews, we examined students’ responses to using VFTs to learn about climate change reform in Tanzania. We also examined students’ thoughts on the value to distant and local communities. Students described the VFT’s impact on learning and drew connections to how what they learned could translate to community action at home. This study suggests that immersive experiences can support learning goals as well as generate a “third-space” to connect students’ home experiences to the VFT.

Authors

• Kathryn Ribay, San Jose State University
  Presenting Author

• Bryan A. Brown, Stanford University
  Presenting Author

• Kendra Sobomehin, Stanford University
  Presenting Author

• Tamara Sobomehin, Stanford University
  Presenting Author