Hello, everyone! This is Eric Hawkinson, and I recently had the privilege of participating in the AWEAsia 2023 Panel on “Designing XR for Experiential Education.” The experience was enlightening, and I’m excited to share some insights with you.
The panel discussion revolved around the potential of XR (Extended Reality) in reshaping experiential education for undergraduate and K12 students. As a learning futurist, I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of technology and education. My projects, ranging from augmented tourism rallies to mixed reality escape rooms, have always aimed to push the boundaries of immersive technology in learning.
Our panel was diverse, with experts like Etienne, a seasoned creative from Kingsmen KR+D, Yuan Yi, a trans-disciplinary practitioner from Hiverlab, and David Weeks, the Content Director of AWE Asia. Each brought a unique perspective to the table, making the discussion rich and multifaceted.
One of the key takeaways from our discussion was the immense potential of XR in creating experiential education activities. From off-campus excursions using mobile AR to VR field trips and classroom simulations, the possibilities are endless. However, as with any emerging technology, there are challenges to overcome, including design, ethical considerations, and physical constraints.
I shared my experiences of integrating augmented and virtual reality into various learning contexts. At the Kyoto University of Foreign Studies, where I teach, we’ve been exploring the confluence of technology, tourism, and society. One of the roles I’m particularly proud of is coordinating research for MAVR (Mixed Augmented Virtual Realities in Learning). Our group has been at the forefront of researching and implementing VR for language learning and acquisition.
But what truly excites me about XR is its potential as an “empathy machine.” In Japan, for instance, many students lack exposure to global issues like the refugee crisis. Through virtual expeditions, we’ve been able to offer them a deeper, more empathetic understanding of such topics. The immersive nature of XR allows students to “experience” situations, leading to profound shifts in perspective.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. As we discussed the challenges, issues like privacy in XR, the rapid evolution of hardware, and the need for standardized platforms came up. There’s also the critical aspect of content creation. As Yuan Yi pointed out, democratizing content creation is essential, and platforms that enable laymen to create immersive experiences will be game-changers.
Each panelist at the AWEAsia 2023 Panel brought a unique perspective that enriched our understanding of XR in experiential education. Etienne, with his vast experience in brand experience and digital marketing, emphasized the importance of designing immersive content that resonates with the audience. He shared insights from his work at Kingsmen, highlighting the potential of XR in creating engaging narratives for museums and exhibitions. Yuan Yi, with his interdisciplinary background, underscored the importance of a holistic approach to XR. Drawing from his work at Hiverlab, he discussed the potential of combining various emerging technologies like AI and 5G with XR to create transformative learning experiences. David Weeks, with his expertise in education technology, brought attention to the challenges and opportunities in integrating XR into educational institutions. His experience in creating virtual campus tours showcased the potential of XR in bridging geographical divides and offering students a unique way to explore global campuses. Each contribution was a testament to the multifaceted potential of XR in reshaping the educational landscape.
Looking ahead, I’m optimistic about the future of XR in experiential education. As hardware becomes more accessible and platforms more user-friendly, we’ll see a surge in immersive learning experiences. Collaborative experiences, where students can interact in real-time within a virtual space, will also gain traction.
The road ahead is filled with challenges, but with collaboration and innovation, we’re poised to revolutionize experiential learning. As educators, technologists, and learners, the onus is on us to harness this potential and create meaningful, impactful learning experiences.