Much has been written on the topic of using virtual reality (VR) to inspire empathy. But simply feeling empathy is not enough to make more compassionate and socially adept students. There is a very tangible opportunity for teachers to use VR as a tool to promote social emotional learning – and there are risks. Can we really use VR to teach students how to be better people? We’ll share case-studied of how VR’s helped with self-efficacy and conflict resolution, and discuss specific risks such as deepening isolation and the digital divide.

1. Teaching Real Empathy – Virtually
@artefactgroupISTE 2016

2. Have you ever seen
a kid use virtual reality
for the first time?
@artefactgroup

3. EMPATHY-BUILDING
IMMERSIVE
ENGAGING
MANIPULATIVE
ISOLATING
ADDICTIVE
@artefactgroup

4. Powerful experiences = powerful learning opportunities
@artefactgroupnearpod.com

5. @artefactgroup
Powerful learning opportunities =
life skills to be better humans
emblematicgroup.com

6. Design for inclusivity.
@artefactgroupartefactgroup.com

7. @artefactgroupstanford.vhil.edu
Model for better decision making.

8. @artefactgroup
Teach for retention.
casel.org