Sufficing the needs of modern learner is a tough job, and traditional pedagogies aren’t enough. Hence, it becomes crucial to incorporate technology in some way as it caters to the requirements of modern learners. Immersive learning is one way through which the process of learning becomes more interactive and engaging. Here are how immersive learning benefits modern learners.
What is Immersive Learning?
Let’s first get familiar with what immersive learning is before we go through the benefits of immersive learning. Immersive learning is a broader concept that encompasses various methods of learning.
Immersive learning is a technique that makes use of an artificial or simulated environment to provide learning to students. Immersive learning always leverages some form of technology through which the process of teaching-learning takes place. The idea is to mimic real-life experiences and let the students immerse themselves completely to better understand various subject matters. Modern technologies such as mixed reality, artificial intelligence, 3D learning, virtual reality, experiential learning, and augmented reality make it easier for learners to understand topics faster.
Is Immersive Learning Similar to Experiential Learning?
Some people may confuse immersive learning with experiential learning. While the main goals of immersive learning and experiential learning are quite similar, there are many differences between these two learning techniques. The first one is use of technology. Immersive learning always makes use of technology is some form or the other. The same is not valid in the case of experiential learning. The other difference is that immersive learning essentially incorporates game-based elements to make learning more fruitful and productive. On the other hand, experiential learning is not certainly game-based.
Incredible Benefits of Immersive Learning
With immersive learning in the classroom, students can get benefitted in a lot of ways. Some of these are listed below.
● No Distractions!
We live in a technological world where distractions have become more common than ever. It makes it difficult for students to concentrate in the classroom. With immersive learning, it becomes easier for students to acquire education in a much effective way. The process makes use of the latest technologies, such as virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, etc. These technologies are capable of grasping the attention of the learners instantly and keep them engaged throughout.
● Focused Immersion
As clear from the name, immersive learning creates an artificial environment with the help of technology, letting the students get immersed in the learning process. Through stimulating visuals, the learners get fully engaged and better understand what is being taught. Virtual simulations further help students to attain practical learning.
● Promotes Personalized Learning
Traditional teaching methods hardly provide personalized learning to students, unless there’s a dedicated teacher for each learner. On the other hand, immersive learning lets every student learn at his/her own pace. With simulations, learners can perform various experiments without stepping out of the classroom. The whole experience is so gripping and enticing that student are motivated to learn and grow.
● Better Memory Retention
It has been proven that one learns better by doing. The concept of immersive learning is so formulated that learners have to immerse themselves in the process thoroughly. Students attain a deeper understanding of concepts, whether it is interactive videos, simulations, or virtual 3D models. This is not possible with other methods of teaching, not with the traditional ones, at least. When learners are engrossed in learning, they understand the toughest of topics without any ado.
● Break the Tethers of Space and Time
When used the right way, technology is a blessing! With immersive learning, students can break the tethers of space and time and learn about historical events and various locations around the world. Virtual field trips have been gaining popularity among modern learners as they allow them to travel any place across the globe. Teachers can also organize sessions that will enable learners to go back to ancient times to understand various historical topics in detail.
● A Great Way to Educate Specially-Abled Students
Physically-challenged students cannot take part in various activities. With the power of technologies such as virtual reality, these students can be a part of various field trips and adventure sports. They might not be able to do the same on their own, but with immersive technology, they can. Virtual reality has also proved to be effective in educating students with autism and speech defects.
Immersive learning is a need for modern learners. Traditional teaching methods are not sufficient to fulfill the requirements of the students in the current era. Blame it to the distractions, or the impact of digital stimulation, immersive learning is crucial to cater to their needs. Hence, schools and educational institutes should find out ways to incorporate immersive learning in the classroom for better learning outcomes.
