North Lindsey College has revealed its latest venture to digitally revolutionise the learning experience with the introduction of an immersive classroom.
Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland employers have pinpointed a skills gap between academic learning and the modern workplace. As such, funding has been granted by the Government through both South Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire College partnerships, as well as investment from DN Colleges Group, to establish a co-operative, cross-campus training resource for both students and teachers.
These cutting-edge learning environments have been set up at North Lindsey College, in Kingsway, Scunthorpe, as well as Doncaster College, boasting wall-to-wall digital screens, interactive displays, VR Headsets and tracking cameras.
Working in conjunction with regional employers, these immersive classrooms will provide virtual ‘on-the-job’ experiences, reflecting real-world scenarios to better equip students for the world of work. Employers stand to gain from new hires who are immediately prepared with practical, sought-after skills due to hands-on virtual training.
Immersive technology lays the groundwork for a deeper understanding and hands-on experience in virtual settings. Dan Wilson, Vice Principal of Business, Growth and Partnership, said: “The project aims to increase the number of employers and learners accessing education to meet the vital needs of the local labour market.”
The classroom was recently put through its paces during interactive sessions led by the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award lead, Stacey Blackwell. The sessions harnessed the technology in the classroom to aid students with teamwork, friendship groups, social interaction and communication skills, while fully utilising the facilities to enrich their college experience.
Stacey said: “As part of their program, we have a section of the award where I deliver team building and ice breakers using the new digital technology of the immersive classroom. The feedback from the students was very positive and they were blown away by the screen and having the music throughout too. There is a demand for this type of session and technology for the future.”
Faris Monaghan, 19, a Level 3 Creative Media student and one of the first to work in the classroom, said: “It’s an open clear space with a big screen and cutting-edge technology which has created a special and unique learning environment.
“It has been an opportunity to help us keep up to date with the latest technology and inspires us to be more creative.”
Original artice: https://www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk/all-about/scunthorpe