Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are transforming user interaction paradigms, offering immersive, interactive, and personalized learning experiences. For IT and management students, these technologies present unique opportunities to engage with complex concepts, develop practical skills, and prepare for future industry demands.
Companies are increasingly integrating VR for training purposes, recognizing its effectiveness in skill development and cost savings. Universities are establishing VR/AR labs to provide students with hands-on experience in immersive technologies, preparing them for the evolving job market. Initiatives are taken by various corporates with the aim to democratize access to immersive learning tools, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds can benefit.
Familiarity with VR/AR technologies enhances adaptability in the workplace, as these tools become integral to various industries. Engaging with immersive technologies fosters creativity and innovation, essential traits for future leaders in IT and management sectors. Exposure to VR/AR prepares students to work in global teams and navigate virtual workspaces, expanding their professional horizons.
The following are the few usage of VR & AR in education:
Simulated Business Environments: VR can recreate business scenarios, allowing students to practice decision-making, leadership, and strategic planning in a controlled setting. This hands-on approach helps bridge the gap between theory and practice making abstract or complex topics more comprehensible foe enhanced learning experiences.
Virtual Labs for Technical Skills: AR/VR platforms provide virtual science labs where students can conduct experiments, making it a valuable tool for IT and engineering disciplines thereby facilitating experiential learning, allowing students to practice tasks in risk-free settings as these VR simulations can improve performance in fields like medicine and engineering.
Remote Internships and Training: VR enables remote internships and training programs, offering students practical experience without geographical constraints. This is particularly beneficial for those in remote areas or with limited access to industry hubs enabling remote collaboration, connecting students across distances and fostering group interactions.
Soft Skills Development: VR simulations can be used to develop soft skills such as communication, negotiation, and empathy, which are crucial in management roles. AI-powered AR/VR systems can adapt to individual learning styles and paces, offering tailored educational experiences that enhance engagement and retention.
Incorporating VR and AR into IT and management education equips students with the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in a technology-driven world. The integration of these technologies are paramount for shaping the future workforce. In aligning with this mission, ASB has incorporated various value additional courses as part of its curriculum and pedagogy for both management and computer science students.
Submitted by
M Bhuvaneswari
Assistant Professor & Convener, IQAC
Asian School of Business, Noida