VR-enhanced PBL
EDLAB and VR/AR expertise centre DEXLab (SBE) collaborated on a project exploring 'VR-enhanced PBL'. Their goal was to assess how VR technology could enhance Problem-Based Learning (PBL) formats, supporting its principles of constructive, contextual, collaborative, and self-directed learning.
This joint effort concluded in April with the release of a detailed report, available for free download, complemented with practical guidelines for educators interested in incorporating VR into their teaching practices. The implementation guidelines can be found within the report but can also be downloaded separately.
Project report and guidelines
The VR-enhanced PBL project report, produced in April 2024 by EDLAB and DEXLab, explores the benefits of integrating VR technology into PBL classrooms.
Based on pilot projects across various UM faculties, the report presents a comprehensive framework for implementation. It also explores specific activities, such as using VR apps for presentation skills training and 360-degree videos.
To create an equal level playing field and stimulate VR-enhanced learning, EDLAB provided 15 VR glasses to each faculty that did not own any before.
The report shows how VR can enhance the PBL experience by offering a fresh and engaging approach to learning. Additionally, a practical guide provides instructions for teaching staff to implement VR in their classrooms, covering both didactic and technical aspects.
The report is freely accessible online (DOI) and for download.
Key takeaways:
- The report highlights the value of faculty tech lab support and emphasises VR as a complementary tool within the CCCS principles of PBL.
- The report offers a balanced perspective on where VR technology can effectively support PBL and where its limitations lie.
As part of the VR-enhanced PBL project, faculties ran several pilots with VR in existing courses. With the help of VR glasses provided by EDLAB, teaching staff used immersive scenarios to train professional skills and offer real-life work/learning experiences through 360° videos.
UM VR network
The VR-enhanced PBL project led to the establishment of the UM VR network, connecting UM tech labs and VR specialists. DEXLab will chair the first year of the VR network that will officially kick off in June 2024.
Contact
For more information, please contact the project leaders, Roberta di Palma (SBE) and Walter Jansen (EDLAB).