With the increasing prevalence of technology in our daily lives, there is a notable increase in the demand for people with a strong grounding in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) by employers. To encourage interest in STEM, Microsoft are unveiling new Windows 10 devices for schools and education centres – a list which included Mixed reality (MR) devices.
Microsoft Education says it will be offering a range of Windows 10 devices, including laptops, tablets and a range of software including Office365 as well as a range of educational materials designed to encourage an interest in STEM subject areas.
It has already been shown that immersive technology such as virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) can have positive benefits in education, encouraging engagement from students and leaving a stronger impression in students’ minds that traditional learning methods.
As such, part of the Microsoft Education package will include MR products and experiences designed to help teachers and educators get the most of out MR devices. Several new updates to its program are being introduced. Including:
Pearson, the world’s largest education company will be rolling out a new curriculum in March 2018 that will work on both HoloLens and Windows 10 MR headsets. The curriculum will include six new applications to demonstrate the value or MR in education.
A new partnership with WGBH’s Bringing the Universe to America’s Classrooms project, which will be distributed across the USA with PBS LearningMedia. This project is aimed at bringing Earth and Space Science content into classrooms in a way that increases engagement.
With an increasing demand for HoloLens in the classroom, Microsoft have announced it will be offering a limited-time academic pricing offer for the HoloLens. Further details on this offer can be found on the HoloLens website.
Other plans for Microsoft Education include working with BBC Education and LEGO to provide interactive educational content, and a new Chemistry Update for Minecraft: Education Edition, so teachers can use Minecraft’s familiar world to engage students in the basics of chemistry.
Further information be found on the Microsoft Education website. VRFocus will continue to bring you the latest on new developments in MR/AR/VR in education.
via Mint VR