Events & Courses

As virtual worlds become more sophisticated, versatile and easier to create, so the potential for their use in a range of disciplines increases. They are already being used as training grounds for geological mapping, multi-user field trips and to build 3D visualisation skills.  They offer the prospect of increasing accessibility to GEES fieldwork for those with mobility/health issues and have the potential to be used, not just in higher education, but in schools and in public engagement with GEES subjects.  

This workshop was aimed at anyone interested in developing, adapting or using virtual worlds in GEES education. We aimed to build a strong community of educators at all levels who support virtual worlds; to share our knowledge and pool our resources.  We also explored the potential for forming partnerships to pursue funding opportunities for developing content, learning materials, delivery platforms and hosting infrastructure. Exploration of ideas around virtual reality and blends of other technologies was also on the agenda.  

Disclaimer: This was not about replacing fieldwork in the curriculum, but how virtual worlds can introduce, support, enhance, extend, revise and promote the whole field experience.  

The workshop included time in the School of Earth and Environment’s Visualisation Lab to explore the different virtual worlds already being used in the geosciences.

Programme

11.20-12.50: A chance to try the virtual worlds and authoring tools out for yourself:

1. Virtual landscapes for geological mapping training (Leeds)

2. Fieldscapes VR: Cardingmill Valley (Daden Ltd)

3. Forensic geoscience CSI (Keele)

4. Google Expeditions – Virtual Reality (OU/FSC/Google)

Discussion:

13.30-14.10: Ideas for future content: landscapes and learning materials

14:10-14:50: How should we deliver/host virtual worlds for teaching?

14.50-15.30: Potential users, stakeholders, funders

15:50–16:15: Plenary and closing discussion
Tom Argles, Jacqui Houghton