6th International Conference on Virtual Reality (VR2024)
Held in-person and on-line internationally to developing
nations. Honored to be the keynote speaker sharing my
journey as a Certified AI and VR Educator.
Presentation Link
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdYYKM3D0mI
William Jackson, MAT & CEO MetaverseWP November 2024
Part 1
We literaly stand on the threshold of a new educational
landscape, one that promises to transform teaching and
learning through the power of Virtual Reality (VR).
This isn’t just another trend or a fleeting technological
innovation; VR in education has the potential to reshape
how students of all abilities engage with knowledge,
creativity, imagination and career-building skills.
As an educator and advocate for technology’s role in
creating accessible, inclusive learning environments,
I’m excited to share the importance of virtual reality
as a tool in education not just for assessment, but for
true, immersive learning.
I’ll explore the practical benefits VR brings to students,
especially those with limited mobility, and learning
challenges setting a foundation for the future of business,
entrepreneurship, and remote careers. We’ll also see how
the synergy of VR and artificial intelligence (AI) creates
opportunities for learning that we couldn’t have imagined
just a decade ago.
The Value of Virtual Reality in Education
VR in education creates worlds without borders. It removes
physical, economic, and geographical constraints, allowing
students to learn in a way that engages their senses, fosters
collaboration, and provides real-world experiences all
without ever leaving the classroom.
As Bill Gates once said, “Technology is just a tool. In terms
of getting the kids working together and motivating them,
the teacher is the most important component of the learning
process.”
But imagine if teachers could have the universe itself as
a teaching aid. VR, the possibilities for hands-on, immersive
learning are limitless. Students can visit historical landmarks,
walk through molecules, interact with virtual cadavers, or
even explore the far reaches of space and travel with
the Artermis Space Program.
This technology not only engages students but also creates
a more inclusive learning environment. Students who struggle
in traditional academic settings often thrive when they
experience lessons firsthand in VR.
Empowering Youth with Limited Mobility
VR’s potential to benefit students with limited mobility
is particularly profound. Physical movement is no longer
a barrier to learning experiences that demand spatial
exploration, interaction, and engagement.
Valerie L. Thomas, a NASA scientist and inventor, was
instrumental in creating technology that laid the foundation
for 3D imaging and VR as we know it today. Reflecting on
her work, she once said, “We have to see beyond our limitations
to create technology that defies them.” VR does just
that for students with limited mobility and visability
challenges. It gives them the freedom to explore new spaces,
practice skills, and participate in physical activities
all within a virtual environment.
Consider a young student who dreams of becoming a marine
biologist but is physically limited by mobility constraints.
With VR, students can dive into coral reefs, study marine
life up close, and simulate fieldwork that’s central to
their future career. Creating these accessible worlds,
VR empowers students to see themselves in a new light,
building confidence and skills that inspire them to
pursue their dreams.
A New Dimension in Business and Entrepreneurship
VR also brings an exciting revolution in the fields of
business and entrepreneurship. With immersive VR
environments, young adults can gain hands-on experience
in business scenarios that would typically be limited
to a traditional internship or work-study program.
Now, they can collaborate in virtual spaces, practice
public speaking in front of lifelike avatars, and
experiment with different business models all from their
classrooms or homes.
As the CEO of My Quest To Teach, I am deeply invested
in how VR can support business education and
entrepreneurial skills. In fact, many companies are
already using VR for employee training and development.
Imagine a group of students working in VR to build a
mock business from product development to marketing,
they can test their ideas, receive feedback, and learn
essential business concepts in a risk-free environment.
