Traditional styles of lecturing and imparting information can be ineffective in terms of student engagement and triggering deeper learning. This is especially challenging in certain subjects that are difficult to teach in a classroom anyway, and for those who process information differently.

Natural sciences like geology and archaeology, for example, offer fascinating insights into the history of our planet and species, their evolution over time, and their future. However, these subjects are inherently practical—students learn by examining samples—and it’s not always easy to engage students within the confines of a lecture hall.

Birkbeck, University of London recently opened a new Immersive Learning Centre where students will be able to learn differently, thanks to a classroom fitted with VR headsets and supported by a digital studio and PC production lab.

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