Virtual reality field trip helps kids learn
Madeline Murray
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – Students at Valley Horizon Elementary School in Yuma recently stepped into a new kind of classroom experience through a virtual reality field trip program created by Arizona nonprofit organization Act One.
The program combines technology and education to expose students to art and culture in an interactive way.
Using virtual reality headsets, students were able to experience a 360 degree visual and audio journey designed to immerse them in art and creativity. Teachers say the experience connects with students because it uses technology they are already familiar with and enjoy.
“Technology is something that our kids understand,” said Eloisa Arviso, a teacher at Valley Horizon Elementary School. “They’re surrounded by it, so it’s a way we can bring the outside world to them in a way that they understand and that they like.”
Students shared excitement about the experience and what they learned from it.
“It was cool. I really liked it. I learned a lot,” one student said.
Another student explained the lesson they took away from the virtual experience, saying, “It doesn’t matter what you paint as long as you express your true self and express your feelings.”
Arviso said the program provides opportunities students may not otherwise have because of school budget cuts.
“We no longer have access to art and music the way we used to before,” Arviso said. “That is why I contacted Act One for this experience.”
The virtual reality field trip experience, also known as Arts Immersion, is designed to provide access to students regardless of income level or geographic location.
The nonprofit organization travels to schools throughout Arizona, often focusing on Title I schools that may not have art programs or access to advanced technology.
“Act One’s main goal is to make art accessible,” said Sydney Ruby, an Act One virtual reality specialist. “One of our biggest ways of doing that is through our virtual reality experience where we travel to schools all throughout the state and bring the experience to the kids.”
The program launched in 2021 and has since reached nearly 50,000 students across Arizona.
Ruby said the experience is meant to inspire students and encourage them to pursue their goals.
“I think it mainly inspires them to pursue their dreams and really learn that even though the doors may not be open for them now, there is a way for them to open them themselves,” Ruby said.
Teachers and organizers say the program continues to resonate with students by exposing them to artists and ideas they can connect with personally while encouraging creativity and self expression.