Page 166 - Resources and Support for the Online Educator

LEARNING TRANSPORTED

of the benefits of this resource is the access to the content on mobile devices and
computers as an alternative to the app.

Storytelling in virtual reality is essentially what we are experiencing in VR Stories.
One of the stories I watched was called the “Extraordinary Gator Feeding Frenzy
in 360°.” If you need an activity for a lesson on carnivores, you will want to check
this story out. The story shows how Jim Darlington, the curator of reptiles at Saint
Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park in Florida, finds his place among hungry
alligators. The footage of the feeding frenzy is incredible.

Taking a step back into Medieval times, VR Stories does a great job of describing
the sport of jousting. You’ll learn all the strategies involved with the sport and how
each move can potentially create a dangerous situation, including the point of con-
tact in the competition, which can be intense. The actors describing life in simpler
times is engaging and informative.

Another historical story that can offer an immersive experience is the reenactment
of Pearl Harbor. Climbing inside of the virtual submarine was uncomfortable and
I immediately felt claustrophobic. These historical stories bring our students into
the events, where they are more likely to be engaged than just by hearing or reading
about them.

Discovery VR
A similar resource to VR Stories is the Discovery VR app. This app brings many of
the Discovery television shows into a 360° experience. Some of the most fascinating
videos include the Discovery VR Atlas, where you’ll be immersed into cultures and
experiences around the world. The DNews Labs explore practical uses of science
as it’s found in the world around us. The science and technology resources are
integrated throughout the app. Be advised, however, there are many 360° videos
that are unrelated to education, so you’ll want to explore the site before unleashing
students on it.

RoundMe
The RoundMe site offers a variety of ways to explore 360° experiences. The original
team was determined to use 360° photography for real estate and had a difficult
time finding a place to upload these images. The site offers a way to explore beau-
tiful immersive experiences. Although the views are breathtaking, the additional
content with the locations make this resource a fantastic and easy way to use virtual
reality with your students.

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