What we’re working on: Bringing VR & AR to education

What we’re working on: Bringing VR & AR to education

On November 2, 2016, we launched the EdSim Challenge on behalf of U.S. Department of Education to source next-generation educational simulations that strengthen career and technical skills to prepare students for a more competitive world.

Simulated learning experiences, such as immersive gaming environments, virtual reality, and training simulations, show great promise to transform instructional content delivery in education. The Challenge also answers the call to President Obama’s vision of using top gaming technology to reimagine education. In March 2011, he said:

“I’m calling for investments in educational technology that will help create. . . educational software that’s as compelling as the best video game. I want you guys to be stuck on a video game that’s teaching you something other than just blowing something up.”

After the close of open submissions on January 17, 2017, a multidisciplinary panel of judges will select up to five finalists to advance to the Virtual Accelerator phase. Each finalist will be awarded $50,000 and gain access to expert mentorship as they refine their concept and build a simulation prototype.

The Challenge has been featured in Education Week, FedScoop, The Virtual Report, UploadVR, Education World, and VR Focus. Have an idea of what the future of learning should look like? Visit the Challenge website and submit your simulation concept.