Recorded Session1. Introduction to VR in Healthcare Education
Time: 10 minutes
Content:
• Overview of VR’s role in education, with a focus on health sciences
• Summary of current research on VR's impact on anatomy and physiology instruction
• Brief review of session objectives and agenda
Engagement:
• Live poll: Gauge attendees’ current use and perception of VR in the classroom
• Quick peer chat: “What’s one challenge you face teaching anatomy or abstract concepts?”
Process:
• Use participant responses to customize examples throughout the session
2. Exploring VR Tools for Anatomy & Physiology
Time: 15 minutes
Content:
• Demonstration of selected VR applications (e.g., ShareCare, 3D Organon, or Visible Body)
• Case examples from physical therapy and healthcare classrooms
• Overview of software requirements and accessibility
Engagement:
• Live demo or video walkthrough of VR app in use with students
• Open Q&A: Attendees ask clarifying questions as they observe
Process:
• Active note-taking guided by a session handout or shared Google Doc
• Encourage attendees to record key instructional features they observe
3. Hands-On VR Experience
Time: 20 minutes
Content:
• Guided VR exploration of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems
• Identification of major anatomical structures and real-time interaction
Engagement:
• Small group rotations: Attendees use headsets in timed turns
• Peer-to-peer coaching to identify structures and share discoveries
• Mini-challenge: Find and name five structures used in PT assessment
Process:
• Set up 2–3 VR stations (or rotate through one if limited)
• Assign peer observers to assist and reflect
Integrating VR into Curriculum Design
Time: 10 minutes
Content:
• Strategies for embedding VR experiences into existing lesson plans
• Addressing time, access, and equipment barriers
• Sample curriculum outline using VR as a formative assessment tool
Engagement:
• Interactive brainstorm: Attendees list one lesson/unit where VR could be applied
• Think-pair-share: “How would this tool improve your students’ understanding of difficult concepts?”
Process:
• Use sticky notes, a Jamboard, or shared doc to collect ideas
• Highlight themes and allow attendees to take photos or download takeaways
5. Collaboration, Reflection, and Wrap-Up
Time: 5 minutes
Content:
• Summary of session takeaways
• Encouragement to connect beyond the session
• Access to shared resource folder and contact info
Engagement:
• Round-robin reflection: “One idea I’m taking with me today is…”
• Open floor for any last questions or feedback
Process:
• Use digital resource handout with links to software, lesson templates, and research articles
After this session, participants will be able to identify the instructional benefits of using virtual reality in teaching human anatomy and physiology, operate VR tools to explore anatomical structures, and design strategies for integrating VR into physical therapy and healthcare education curricula to improve student engagement, understanding, and real-world application.
1. EDUCAUSE Review – “Making VR a Reality in the Classroom”
This article explores practical strategies for implementing VR in educational settings, highlighting its benefits in enhancing engagement, comprehension, and retention in complex subjects like anatomy.
https://er.educause.edu/articles/2021/4/making-vr-a-reality-in-the-classroom
2. Science & Literacy – “How to Use Virtual Reality in the Classroom”
This guide details specific educational applications of VR, with a section focused on anatomy and health sciences. It emphasizes how VR helps students visualize and interact with systems difficult to grasp through traditional methods.
https://scienceandliteracy.org/how-to-use-virtual-reality-in-the-classroom/
3. Teacheducator.com – “How to Use AR and VR in Classrooms”
This article outlines the instructional value of VR and AR technologies, particularly in STEM and medical education, and offers tips for successful classroom implementation.
https://teacheducator.com/ar-and-vr-in-classrooms/
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