Immersive virtual reality in second level education: challenges and opportunities for STEM engagement

Digital education in the life sciences has seen several remarkable advances in recent years, not least with the advent of visual and immersive technologies that bring into focus the conceptually challenging molecular concepts that underpin the natural ecosystem. In some cases, limitations in visualising and modelling these concepts can prove to be a barrier to learning. Providing new entry points to learning through “doing” or “seeing” could prove to be a significant enhancer of engagement, unlocking hidden potential in our student cohorts, and increasing the uptake of science as a subject of choice in higher education. In this study we worked in partnership with practitioners of second level education in Ireland to explore the design and integration of immersive virtual reality simulations for the teaching of microbial and human cell structures. We also considered the wider application of virtual reality and immersive learning technologies for STEM engagement and learning.