Ten Most Important Benefits of Virtual Tours in Education

The change in teaching methodology has drastically changed since the pandemic. Subjects such as geography, mathematics, science, etc., have been more fun and engaging. But how did it become possible? Well, it is all due to virtual reality and virtual field trips

Virtual tour have become a popular and effective learning method in recent years. With the advancement of technology, students can now learn about various subjects and topics without leaving their classroom. In addition, it allows students to experience a virtual environment that simulates real-life experiences. In this article, we have provided the ten most important benefits of virtual tours in education. 

Benefits of Virtual Tours in Education -

Virtual field trips can augment face-to-face field trips as a resource used before and during the trip. Here are some advantages of virtual field trips used in educational sectors or institutions. 

Accessibility - 

The virtual field trips provide access to otherwise inaccessible places. For example, students can visit museums and historical sites worldwide without leaving the classroom. This makes it possible for students in remote or underprivileged areas to access educational resources they would not have otherwise had.

Cost-effective -

Having virtual tours in classrooms is cost-effective compared to traditional field trips. These trips have saved a lot on transportation and accommodation costs, and there is no need for a large chaperone team.

Enhance learning -

These interactive tours ​​provide students with a more immersive learning experience. Students can view 360-degree panoramic views and engage with educational resources such as videos, images, and audio recordings. Virtual tours allow students to explore places they may not have had the chance to otherwise, enriching their understanding of a given topic.

Real-life experiences

Virtual field trips provide students with real-life experiences. Students can visualize and explore at their own pace and access materials that cater to their needs. Educators and teachers can also customize tours and activities to fit the specific needs of their classrooms. 

Multisensory-learning 

Virtual tours engage students’ senses making it more likely that they will remember the experience. It incorporates visuals, sounds, and sometimes smells, enhancing students’ understanding. 

Personalization -

The field trips can be tailored to fit the needs of each student. Students can explore at their own pace and access materials that cater to their needs. Teachers can also customize tours and activities to fit the specific needs of their classroom.

Convenience and comfort

The virtual trips can be accessed from anywhere and anytime. This makes it easier for students who cannot attend the physical trips or have other scheduling conflicts. 

Safe-learning

It provides a safe learning environment. Students can explore and learn without facing any physical risks or danger. 

Eco-friendly

These tours are environment-friendly. In addition, they reduce carbon emissions by eliminating the need for transportation, making them a sustainable alternative to physical field trips. 

Expansion in learning without limitations

Virtual field trips have no boundaries. Students can easily explore places that may be too dangerous, remote, or expensive to visit physically. Also, it is beneficial for physically-disabled students who struggle with taking part in the in-person field trip. 

Tips and Tricks for creating a fascinating VR trip at schools

• Closely work with the digital education team. They can guide the students in making learning more accessible and professional. 

• Introduce students to the concept of the virtual field trip early in the module so they can familiarize themselves with the VR benefits. 

• Including all the data and information in the virtual field trip will help the students who missed the classes for some reason or those with disabilities that may prevent them from attending the trip. This means that all students can perform the assessment linked to the field trip, supporting a more inclusive and equitable approach. 

• Include a mix of photos, site videos, and explanatory videos to engage and help students to learn more about the subject or topic. 

• Using online mapping resources to augment virtual video trips. It allows the students to learn new skills, such as online data visualization, mapping, and data gathering. 

• Try to replicate the conditions so that students can get a more immersive experience online. For example, consider using aerial drone video of a site or 360-degree ground shots with sound recordings. 

Conclusion -

Beyond traditional teaching, virtual field trips can be used and applied across many social science disciplines and humanities. For example, walking tours of different urban and rural environments. However, this is one example of how VR trips can augment existing teaching disciples, yet the possibilities are endless. So, we encourage you to experience and play the field to see how these trips can be future-proof for your teaching.