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Avantis Education, creator of the world’s only virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) solution designed exclusively for education, showcased the cross-curricular value of VR/AR at this year’s Bett by unveiling a series of ClassVR hardware, software, and content enhancements, and hosting best practice presentations in collaboration with its UK education ambassadors.
Powered by Eduverse, an innovative new VR/AR content engine, ClassVR launched interactive Mathematics scenes for the first time, expanded English content, and introduced enhanced teacher resources. More than 60 new resources were released into the Eduverse at Bett, allowing schools to access rich learning content on ClassVR headsets, or any webenabled device. Responding to increased demand for curriculum-aligned content across all subjects, the new Mathematics resources are designed to make learning relevant, accessible, and fun. Popular English resources have been expanded to support English Language teaching for KS1/2 and English as an additional language (EAL). Listening to teacher feedback, a new suite of accompanying worksheets has also been developed to support student assessment alongside VR/AR.
Gillian Rhodes, Chief Marketing Officer, Avantis Education, explains: “There’s mounting evidence that bringing VR/AR into lessons helps to improve student outcomes by creating immersive learning experiences and increasing knowledge retention – across all subject areas. “We’re continually developing ClassVR to meet the evolving needs of education, and Eduverse content is at the core of this strategy. We’re excited to release our very first interactive Mathematics resources, and demonstrate how VR/AR can make complex concepts relevant to any learner.”
A flexible teaching solution
The latest ClassVR software enhancements have focused on improving user experience. With an increasing number of interactive activities available in the Eduverse, including the new Mathematics and English Language lessons, a ‘snap-on’ feature has been introduced that gives increased accuracy when interacting in the virtual environment. Recognising that schools often share ClassVR headsets across classrooms and departments, Avantis Education has also launched a new mobile cart which stores, charges, and transports up to 30 devices. Ergonomically designed, the cart incorporates an anti-tip mechanism and is ruggedised
for the education environment.
To help visitors better understand the cross-curricular value of VR/AR, ClassVR ambassadors were on-stand for the duration of the show, sharing their best practice insights on a range of topics including ‘Virtual Reality: Neuroempathy & Supporting Neurodiversity’. Delivered by Simon Luxford-Moore, Head of e-Learning at ESMS, this daily session demonstrated how VR can help better educate neurotypical learners about the differences and challenges some neurodivergent peers experience. It also explored how VR is successfully supporting those with “big emotions” in neurotypical environments, increasing engagement in class and providing a tool to help self-regulate.
An award-winning solution – loved by students
Alongside non-stop on-stand excitement during the show, Avantis Education had further cause for celebration after being crowned winner of International Digital Educational Resource at the Bett Awards. According to the Bett judges: “Congratulations to Avantis Education for turning virtual, augmented and mixed reality into a transformational experience on a global scale. With localisation available in 27 languages and curriculum alignment spanning over 11 key areas, Class VR can not only expand learning opportunities for students but also has the potential to make a truly positive impact on enriching educational outcomes.”
Announced at a gala dinner on the first night of the three-day event, the company’s latest award success for ClassVR proved an excellent springboard for the remainder of the show – including a student takeover on the Friday. Pupils from John Keats Primary School took over the VR/AR reigns to share their experiences of using ClassVR in class. Speaking clearly and confidently as they led demonstrations for visitors, the students navigated a wide range of ClassVR playlists to explain why VR/AR is truly cross-curricular and how it helps them to learn in different ways. For anyone who missed seeing ClassVR at Bett, learn more about thisaward-winning VR/AR solution for education by visiting
www.classvr.com
