Dr Toni Pirtle's Blog

CCA JUNE BOARD PLANNING IS IN SESSION!

Posted on by Dr Pirtle

I serve on the CCA Board of Directors as the Northern Women’s Rights/Issues Director, and this weekend, Friday June 9 through Sunday June 11, the Board are all together in Burlingame, at CTA HQ for the Board Planning Session!  Much dialog and business happening, with a great Board Packet to work through, for the good of all 🙂

The Community College Association, with CTA and NEA as its partners:

  • advocates for California’s public higher education faculty
  • empowers locals
  • builds strong and effective coalitions
  • promotes equity and inclusion
  • strives to preserve quality public education
Quality education & leapfrogging the issues with virtual reality

Quality education & leapfrogging the issues with virtual reality

Posted on by Dr Pirtle

Everything I do in virtual reality is fun! I’m continually amazed by the incredible people in this field; they are all truly dedicated and passionate individuals who are making change happen. I’m thankful to be a part of this community. As a member of the VR/AR Association and Education Committee, I am fortunate to attend regular meetings where virtual reality topics from around the globe are discussed and presented. At one of the recent meetings, we discussed training and delivery frameworks of education in the metaverse, and I was drawn to visit a link that was shared by Marcus Shingles, CEO of Exponential Design. Marcus and his team recently presented at the 8th Annual Science, Technology, and Innovation Forum at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. They shared their insights on the Metaverse Global VR Competition, which brought in over 1,200 registrants and teams of young people aged 14 and up from over 70 countries around the world.  The goal of the competition was to create a metaverse in virtual reality for one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. 

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 goals aimed at improving the planet and the quality of human life around the world by the year 2030:-

 

  1. No Poverty

  2. Zero Hunger

  3. Good Health and Well-being

  4. Quality Education

  5. Gender Equality

  6. Clean Water and Sanitation

  7. Affordable and Clean Energy

  8. Decent Work and Economic Growth

  9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

  10. Reduced Inequalities

  11. Sustainable Cities and Communities

  12. Responsible Consumption and Production

  13. Climate Action

  14. Life Below Water

  15. Life On Land

  16. Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

  17. Partnerships for the Goals

Virtual reality and metaverse technologies have the potential to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in various ways, such as raising awareness, promoting empathy and sensitization, and providing immersive experiences. These technologies can be used to accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs by 2030.  Marcus and the team at Exponential Destiny gave an impressive presentation, highlighting how virtual reality can be used as a tool by teachers to reinvent and improve education and learning. Their words echoed what many people in the VR community have been discussing.

I am so very thankful for all of the folks in the VR community who are working together to make a difference for all of us!  I believe that by using virtual reality to access the metaverse, we can provide equity and inclusion through immersion and experiential learning that isn’t currently available to everyone. It is a way to bridge the social, economic, and digital divide issues we currently have in education.

My First AR/VR Association Education Committee Meeting

Posted on by Dr Pirtle

I attended a very interesting #VRARAEduCommittee meeting today! Our presenter was Dr Joel Sadler, excellent glimpse at AR, 3D sims and AI – a topic very important to me personally, in the field of higher education, as well as many other industries and professionals.

It was so interesting to learn about XR Holodeck, I had no idea that this was available – I will write more about that another time!  Dr Sadler talked about the temptation in education to use AI to provide answers, and how important it is to have a grounding strategy ensure the accurate and truthful outcome of the data.  Much was shared about different apps, but the biggest takeaway for me was just how much the conversation focused around AR, and less on the immersive experience of the entire VR experience.  However, it was acknowledged that in a perfect world, it would be best to wear the headset if possible 🙂

#highereducation #ai #studentsuccess #studentengagement #immersivelearning #virtualreality #highereducationleadership

Celebrating the Academic Year 2022-2023

Posted on by Dr Pirtle

The 2022-2023 academic year has been one to remember for Dr. Toni Pirtle. As a professor and researcher, she has achieved great success and made significant contributions to her field. Throughout the year, Dr. Pirtle has attended several global metaverse conferences and Virtual Reality trainings and has received numerous accolades for bringing virtual reality to educators.  This past year, she has worked with several global companies and presented her findings at conferences including CCCAOE, CAEP, and the Community College Presidents Institute.  She has also been a guest speaker on Virtual Reality at the Bakersfield Community College District.  This semester, following Speaking at the Global VR in Education Forum, with the presentation “Bringing VR to the Community College Classroom, Dr. Pirtle became a member of the VR/AR Association Education Committee. 

In addition to her research, Dr. Pirtle has also excelled in the classroom this semester, having gratefully received support from Administration in bringing several headset opportunities to her face-to-face Social Media class.  Her students consistently give her praise for her engaging teaching style and her ability to make the complex concepts of working in the virtual arena understandable. Dr. Pirtle has also taken on leadership roles beyond her Department and has continued to serve as a Lead and committee member.

A most notable achievement is that Dr. Pirtle has served on the CCA Board of Directors as the Women’s Issues Director (North) in an Interim capacity, and in April was elected at the Spring CCA Conference to serve a new 2-year term, continuing her role to support and advocate for women in higher education.

Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Pirtle has remained committed to her work and her students. She has continued to make progress on her research projects.  As the academic year ends, Dr. Pirtle can look back with pride on all that she has accomplished. Her hard work and passion for her field have paid off in countless ways, and she is excited to continue making a difference in the years to come.

I’m a Speaker in great comany at VR in Education Forum, April 26th!

Posted on by Dr Pirtle

There will be so many speakers at this year’s VR/AR Association Education Forum! I am looking forward to attending, learning lots, and I am especially excited to be presenting “Bringing Virtual Reality to the Community College Classroom” – it’s all happening on April 26th! #immersivelearning #studentsuccess #studentengagement #highereducationleadership #vrara

VR AR Association

Posted on by Dr Pirtle

If you are interested in Virtual Reality, and all things that go with it, it is a good idea to check out the VR/AR Association!  I am a member and it provides me access to the global industry association for Virtual & Augmented Reality!

By joining the VR/AR Association, members can participate in annual industry forums focused on education, enterprise and training, storytelling, healthcare, and retail.  The association also provides exclusive newsletters and other resources to its members.  I am learning so much already from fellow members, and from the multitude of resources made available to me.  

#virtualreality #ARVR #ARVRinEDU #studentengagement #studentsuccess #immersivelearning #highereducationleadership

Managing the VR experience in the college classroom

Managing the VR experience in the college classroom

Posted on by Dr Pirtle

It can get a little crazy in a classroom when learners put on their headsets for the first time!  They immediately see before them so many things to click on!!!  They also want to share their emotional response to what they are seeing, out loud for everyone else to wonder at!

As a teacher it is so much fun to watch learners when they start to use VR – and those very first few minutes are absolutely priceless – to me anyway!!!  It brings the same kind of thrilling emotion that you get when you experience one of those life changing “first” moments, like seeing your infant roll over for the first time, travel to a new country or experiencing a new culture, or graduating from college!  Sharing the immersive experience is quite possibly the most important and emotionally  rewarding experience I have had during my teaching career. 

I have taught so many new technologies in the classroom over the decades, and I like to think that through those experiences I have a good grasp on classroom management, and the challenges of introducing new things!  I share here my thoughts on how to manage the VR experience in the classroom.

Managing a classroom of people wearing virtual reality headsets can be a unique and challenging experience for both the teacher and the students. Here are some tips on how to effectively manage a classroom of people wearing virtual reality headsets:

  1. Establish clear rules and expectations: Make sure to set clear rules and expectations for behavior while wearing virtual reality headsets. This could include guidelines on movement, communication, and appropriate use of the technology.

  2. Provide clear instructions: Ensure that all students understand how to use the virtual reality headsets and any software or apps that are being used in the classroom. Provide clear instructions and demonstrations as needed.

  3. Monitor student behavior: Keep an eye on students’ behavior while they are using virtual reality headsets. Be aware of any signs of disorientation, discomfort, or inappropriate behavior, and intervene if necessary.

  4. Use collaborative activities: Consider using collaborative activities that require students to work together in virtual reality. This can help build teamwork and communication skills and can also be a fun way to learn.

  5. Use virtual reality to enhance learning: Use virtual reality as a tool to enhance learning, not just as a novelty. Incorporate virtual reality experiences that align with your curriculum and learning objectives.

  6. Consider accessibility: Keep in mind that some students may have difficulty using virtual reality headsets, such as those with certain disabilities or medical conditions. Consider alternative activities or accommodations for these students.

Overall, managing a classroom of people wearing virtual reality headsets requires careful planning, clear communication, and constant monitoring. With the right strategies in place, virtual reality can be an effective tool for enhancing learning and engagement in the classroom, not to mention a whole bunch of fun!!!!

Self Care In Virtual Reality!

Self Care In Virtual Reality!

Posted on by Dr Pirtle

Virtual Reality (VR) technology can be a great tool for practicing self-care and relaxation. One way to do this is by using travel apps in VR.  My favorite travel app is Wander.  The app is user friendly, and has allowed me to travel pretty much anywhere, either alone or with friends and family.  I have really enjoyed meeting new people along the way too.  It has been a great way to take some self care time out!

On a recent self-care excursion, I decided to try out the app Meta recently released called Wooorld.  It is a competitor to Wander, and when I began to use it, I did find it difficult compared to Wander.  I almost decided to give up, but persevered and after a few hours, I can say that I am now quite comfortable, although there is more to learn there! So, you may ask, where was my first Wooorld self care trip?  I ventured to Venice!  I spent about an hour wandering around the canals and streets, it was definitely a good visit 🙂

 

Here are some steps to help you use travel apps in VR for self-care:

Choose a VR headset

You will need a VR headset to experience travel apps in VR. Popular options include the Oculus Quest 2, HTC Vive, and PlayStation VR.

Download a travel app

There are many travel apps available for VR, such as Wander, Google Earth VR, and National Geographic Explore VR. Choose one that appeals to you and download it onto your VR headset.

Choose a destination

Once you have the app, choose a destination that you would like to visit virtually. It could be a place you have always wanted to visit, a place that holds special meaning to you, or simply a place that looks beautiful and peaceful.

Explore the destination

Once you have chosen a destination, use the travel app to explore it. Move around, look at the scenery, and take in the sights and sounds. Immerse yourself in the experience as much as possible.

Practice mindfulness

While exploring the destination, practice mindfulness by focusing on your breath, your body, and your surroundings. Try to stay present in the moment and let go of any distractions or stressors.


Take breaks

If you start to feel overwhelmed or dizzy while using the VR headset, take a break. It’s important to listen to your body and take care of yourself.


Using travel apps in VR can be a great way to practice self-care and relaxation. It allows you to escape to a virtual destination, explore new places, and practice mindfulness all at once. Give it a try and see how it works for you!
 

You must agree, it does look like fun?
Take self-care 🙂

Train the Trainer Tips for VR

Posted on by Dr Pirtle

Managing a classroom of people wearing virtual reality headsets can be a unique and challenging experience for both the teacher and the students. Here are some tips on how to effectively manage a classroom of people wearing virtual reality headsets:

  1. Establish clear rules and expectations: Make sure to set clear rules and expectations for behavior while wearing virtual reality headsets. This could include guidelines on movement, communication, and appropriate use of the technology.

  2. Provide clear instructions: Ensure that all students understand how to use the virtual reality headsets and any software or apps that are being used in the classroom. Provide clear instructions and demonstrations as needed.

  3. Monitor student behavior: Keep an eye on students’ behavior while they are using virtual reality headsets. Be aware of any signs of disorientation, discomfort, or inappropriate behavior, and intervene if necessary.

  4. Use collaborative activities: Consider using collaborative activities that require students to work together in virtual reality. This can help build teamwork and communication skills and can also be a fun way to learn.

  5. Use virtual reality to enhance learning: Use virtual reality as a tool to enhance learning, not just as a novelty. Incorporate virtual reality experiences that align with your curriculum and learning objectives.

  6. Consider accessibility: Keep in mind that some students may have difficulty using virtual reality headsets, such as those with certain disabilities or medical conditions. Consider alternative activities or accommodations for these students.

Overall, managing a classroom of people wearing virtual reality headsets requires careful planning, clear communication, and constant monitoring. With the right strategies in place, virtual reality can be an effective tool for enhancing learning and engagement in the classroom.

Which HEI’s Are Using Virtual Reality

Posted on by Dr Pirtle

There are many universities in the United States that are using virtual reality (VR) for instruction. Here are a few examples:

1. Stanford University

2. University of Southern California

3. Harvard University

4. MIT

5. Duke University

6. University of California, Berkely

7. Ohio State University

8. University of Texas at Austin

9. Columbia University

10. New York University

These institutions are using VR for a variety of purposes, including enhancing experiential learning, increasing student engagement, and improving accessibility to education. VR is being used in subjects such as medicine, engineering, architecture, art, and more.  It’s important to note that this is just a small sample of the universities that are using VR for instruction. Many institutions, including colleges, are actively exploring and experimenting with VR technology, and the list is constantly growing. More to come on the list of colleges…..