3D + VR Technology in Education

3D + VR Tech in Education: An Introduction

March 4 - April 4, 2017

Price: Free

This online mini-course will give a whirlwind tour through some of the issues at the intersection of 3D/VR technology and education. In addition to getting exposure to some tools you can already start using with your students or colleagues, we're also going to read some of the research in the field, collaborate, and create our own lessons. Join if you'd like to meet other educators interested in 3D or VR technology, learn about some ed-tech tools you can use right away with your students, and think critically about these tools together. Teachers of all subjects and levels are welcome. Spread the word by sharing this link!

Note: You don't need a VR headset to participate, but it will enhance the class significantly if you at least have a Google Cardboard! Almost all of the tools we'll discuss also have a laptop or mobile compatible version. Also, this course will not require any coding, but those that are familiar with coding will find avenues to pursue within some of the tools we explore.

Week 1 will be a look at the history of 3D/VR technology to place the current hype cycle in its historical context. We'll also explore some of the current VR headsets available on the market today. We will also do some readings on what the future of this technology might hold for the education space.

Week 2 will look at how publishing companies are using VR to augment their news stories, and we'll explore the idea of using VR as an "empathy machine" with students.

Week 3 will be a deep dive into a number of 3D/VR tools for 3D model and environment creation and exploration. You'll be encouraged to create a few models and maps yourself.

Week 4 is a look at some social 3D/VR tools that you can use to come together with your students or colleagues in a virtual environment. We'll look at some of the research about the efficacy of these environments, and try a few out ourselves!


Your Instructor


Gabe Baker
Gabe Baker

I taught English and Latin in Los Angeles for a few years before going to University of California, Santa Barbara to get my Master's Degree in education technology. After working in the ed-tech industry for a year in San Francisco, I started Edorble, a startup that makes 3D online learning environments for teachers and students.


Course Curriculum


  Week 1: What's Old is New Again? History and Issues in VR and Education
Available in days
days after you enroll
  Week 2: VR for Field Trips, Museums, and Feelings?
Available in days
days after you enroll

Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
This class will start on March 4 and finish on April 4.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
Is this course about practical things, or about theoretical things?
Both. We're going to look at a lot of tools you can use in the classroom the next day, but we're also going to take a thoughtful look at some of the research and writings at the intersection of 3D/VR technology and education.
Do I have to do a lot of stuff to participate, or can I just look at the readings and be an eavesdropper?
You can do whatever you'd like. :) I encourage you to take part in the online forums and our tweetchats, and we're going to meet weekly to have synchronous discussion for those that want to. That said, you'll only get encouragement, not pressure, from me to participate in that way. I definitely respect those that just want to poke around.

Get started now!