Virtual reality: Development of an integrated learning environment for education

Abstract

The new paradigm shift of education where learners should learn real-life scenarios and solve real-life problems has created a major challenge. Students are passive and detached and may struggle to see the relevance of what they are learning to their lives. The recent growth of emerging technologies has launched terms such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) into mainstream topic. Virtual reality, an integrated, hands-on tool for learning, can play a unique role in addressing these educational challenges. The proposed research demonstrates using the knowledge of integrated disciplines with virtual reality. COSPACES and MERGE cube add-on have been used to develop a simulation platform to teach water cycle process for young kids. This type of integration develops learners’ 21st century skills to be decision makers, problem solvers, lifelong learners, creators, innovators, and to think critically in solving problems.