In this grad course, I was impressed by how much the tech side of being a media specialist has changed
throughout the years. The course showed me how to use new software and techniques to create and
manage media content. It also showed me how to use social media to reach and engage with my audience.
I learned a lot of new skills that I can use in my career as a future media specialist and the joy it can bring
to the students and faculty.
Some ideas I took from this course were that I have to be continually updated with the latest technology and trends in media. Preparing to make the switch to new technologies, software and platforms is necessary when I am trying to make the best possible learning experience. I am also aware of the importance of social media and understand how to utilize it effectively along with being a good digital citizen.
Additionally, I have to strive to become an expert in my field, gaining knowledge of the tech world and staying up to date on the latest educational trends. As a media specialist, I will be familiar with the tools used in the industry and how to use them for the best outcome for my students. With the right skills and knowledge, I can stay ahead of the curve and be successful.
The digital world evolves quickly, and this is why taking the time to invest in fun and engaging resources can help equip me with the skills I need to succeed.
Today, we are going to talk about VR with Google!!
Rice and Galbraith (2008) expresses that, “Virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) is a phenomenon that has been in its varying growth stages for years (in the case of VR, decades, as far back as the 1930s). But, today, with a headset available to some and a hand-held device available to many, it benefits library users who are fully expecting such enriched services in the future to include VR or AR” (p.796). Several high tech devices have been created for entertainment and can be used for education; however, it is usually expensive. Therefore, Google has an easier and less expensive alternative called Google Cardboard.
Google Cardboard is, “VR experience starting with a simple viewer anyone can build or buy. Once you have it, you can explore a variety of apps that unfold all around you. And with plenty of viewer types available, you're sure to find one that fits you just right” (Google). The most important aspect of Google Cardboard is that you can pick any viewer from prices that range from $9-$40 and you can use it with any phone. Most of our middle and high school students have their own phones, so they would just have to download the apps to participate in the lesson.
If you would like to view the apps, then please click on the picture above! I definitely recommend trying various apps that you think would work best for you and your students due to there being about 30 apps that can be used for an amazing experience.
What can librarians do with this resource to help with student engagement in the classroom?
There is a plethora of resources that can help anyone use Google Cardboard:
Now, one lesson in particular that I have used VR with is viewing Exoplanets during our Astronomy Unit. I did not have Google Cardboard and I definitely wish I had. In this lesson, students are to follow along in this video:
As they follow along, they are to document the weather, temperature, distance from Earth, and whether they can survive on this exoplanet. This VR video takes them to 6 exoplanets that have been discovered by scientists. It shows them what the planet looks like from space and then they dive right onto the surface to explore everything that planet has to offer. It is always a big hit with my students because they get to see an exoplanet that is very similar to Earth!
If you have any questions, then please comment below!!!
