If you're thinking about purchasing a virtual reality (VR) headset or several for schools, this guide can help. To ensure you get the right model, there are many things to consider before investing in a headset.
It's worth considering whether you need VR, AR, or both. While VR gives you a virtual reality experience, viewed on headset screens, AR provides augmented reality where it combines projected images onto the view of the real world. So, while VR is great for taking a virtual field trip to the other side of the world, AR can be a great way to conduct a virtual experiment as if the tools were right there in the classroom.
This guide aims to include both options, so you can consider all options before deciding which is best for your school. So, it may be worth checking out the The best virtual reality headsets for schools guide to choosing a specific model. Or perhaps a direct service company, which comes with all the equipment and gives lessons, such as Discover virtual realityis a simpler option.
VR or AR?
First, you need to decide whether you need a virtual reality or augmented reality headset. Generally, an augmented reality headset will cost you more than a virtual reality headset, as the technology is a bit more complex, involving cameras to detect the room and a screen that is projected onto a transparent visor so you can see the physical room as well.
That said, there are plenty of augmented reality apps that work on smartphones. So, you could just pick up a basic headset stand for a smartphone and use augmented reality that way to save a lot of money.
The appeal of VR over AR is not just the price, but also the availability of hardware and software. It's a technology that's been around longer, and applications may be easier to create. So there's a huge variety of VR headsets and a lot of great content designed specifically for teaching.
Amount
The number of headsets you need and how you want to teach are important factors to consider. You can buy a single headset and share it in turns, or buy several and work in groups. Or you can buy a full charge for the class and take the entire lesson into virtual worlds.
This is a little more complicated, as you'll need to consider whether you want a setup that is centrally controlled, where you can send the same images to all the headsets at once, and where the controls are locked down so that students have to follow along with the set lesson. These setups can be more expensive and may require a central computer to run the headsets from.
However, there are also many rental options, so it might be worth trying before you buy to see what works best for your class.
Brands
There are plenty of brands on offer for VR headsets these days, so it's worth considering what you need from each one. You might prefer the most affordable option, or you might be looking for a headset that's compatible with your current setup.
A Microsoft Mixed Reality headset for Windows PCs might work ideally for a current school setup. Or you might want to get a Vive device for immersive gaming, an Apple device for a wide selection of augmented reality software, a Meta setup for great value for money standalone, or something specialized for group installations like VR Class.
In short, it is worth taking the time to research which brand might best match a specific learning activity before purchasing.
Connectivity
Almost all VR and AR headsets now work over Wi-Fi and use battery power to make the devices as wireless as possible. Older models did require plugging in, though, so if you're saving money that way, be sure to check how they connect, as cables in class, when students can't see, can be dangerous.
Opting for a smartphone or tablet setup can be helpful in this case, as you'll have that Wi-Fi connection and app stores, so gaining access to the software and remaining compatible can be a simple process.
Prices
The cost involved in VR and AR headsets can be prohibitive, but thanks to the proliferation of technology and software, there are now more price ranges than ever before that you can get involved in.
From a basic Google Cardboard headset, which turns a smartphone into an AR and VR headset, to complex multi-platform setups VR Class Directly through Apple Vision ProThere are options to suit most needs.
It is worth thinking first about the software you will need to teach effectively and then working back to the hardware that way, which will often allow you to keep prices down if necessary without losing the bottom line of what the software offers.
Review the The best virtual reality headsets for schools with all of the above in mind to find your ideal setup.
