Discovery Education Immersive Tech PD - #31DaysofARVRinEDU Quick Tips

Immersive tools like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are constantly growing and changing. Teachers may be interested in exploring these tools but may not have the professional development available to jump in. Thankfully, some companies have provided resources for educators to understand and effectively use AR and VR.

These tools can make your lessons more dynamic, allowing students to explore ancient civilizations, dive into the ocean’s depths, or even walk on Mars without leaving the classroom. However, while AR and VR offer incredible opportunities, their effectiveness depends on a key factor: teachers who know how to use them well.

Thanks to a partnership between Discovery Education and Verizon Innovative Learning, there are many resources for the classroom teacher to get started. Below are four great options to begin your immersive technology journey.

Classroom Management with Mixed Reality is a Verizon and Discovery Education online learning module designed to help teachers effectively integrate augmented and virtual reality into their classrooms. The course offers practical strategies for managing classrooms positively while clarifying the differences between AR and VR.

This course focuses on enhancing student engagement through AR, covering strategies for prior knowledge, instruction, and assessment. The program guides educators through three phases of learning and includes opportunities for reflection and practice, offering valuable resources to support the implementation of this technology in the classroom.

Discover how educators are transforming student-centered learning with Augmented Reality (AR). Learn practical ways to integrate AR into your curriculum by exploring the experiences of two educators who are using this technology to create more interactive and engaging classroom environments.

Discovery Education offers a Master Class video focused on immersive technology professional development. This resource provides educators with insights on effectively using AR in the classroom. By watching the video and engaging with discussion questions from the accompanying educator guide, teachers can independently or collaboratively explore creative classroom management techniques tailored for implementing new technology and instructional strategies.

To complete this list of resources, Discovery Education has listed both courses I created with Digital Promise, available in the Verizon Innovative Learning HQ.

Want to get started? Check out Discovery Education’s Immersive Learning Resources here.