Prisms: Revolutionizing STEM Education with Augmented and Virtual Reality
Prisms is a groundbreaking tool that harnesses the power of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to transform how science and math are taught. With an enthusiastic backing from its creators, Prisms represents a “new paradigm for education,” setting itself apart through thoughtfully designed VR experiences.
What is Prisms?
Prisms is a digital learning platform that aims to bring STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) concepts to life. Unlike traditional teaching methods that often rely on abstract numbers and formulas, Prisms allows students to manipulate and interact with mathematical and scientific concepts physically. This hands-on approach opens the door for a deeper understanding, enabling students to visualize and experience phenomena rather than simply conceptualize them.
By engaging students in kinesthetic learning, Prisms helps set the foundation for future academic success. By physically exploring ideas in a virtual environment, learners can grasp complex concepts more intuitively, paving the way for easier transition to theoretical work later on.
How Does Prisms Work?
To utilize Prisms, students must wear VR headsets equipped with motion controls, allowing them to interact seamlessly with the augmented reality experience. The platform not only offers software but also provides the necessary hardware, including Pico and Meta Quest VR kits for schools. Excitingly, Prisms is also in the process of integrating with Apple Vision Pro.
Teachers receive comprehensive training that covers both hardware and software use, alongside strategies for easing students from virtual learning to traditional pen-and-paper tasks. For instance, one engaging example demonstrates how students learn about waste management through a virtual dump site where they can manipulate the amount of trash coming in and visualize its impact on capacity.
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Best Features of Prisms
Prisms offers tailored teaching solutions, focusing on various specific areas conducive to distinct learning scales. It covers a wide range of topics across multiple grades, including:
- Algebra 1
- Geometry
- Advanced Algebra
- High School Chemistry and Biology
- Middle School Math concepts like fractions, surface area, and probability
This platform is designed not just for review but aims to tackle "bottleneck" topics that often hinder progression. Each module is paced to fit into the teacher’s curriculum calendar, ensuring a structured integration into daily lesson plans.
Furthermore, Prisms provides a full day of professional development for educators. This comprehensive training covers the entire Prisms ecosystem—from hardware handling and lesson cycles to utilizing the Teacher Dashboard effectively.
Ongoing Support and Resources
One of the standout aspects of Prisms is the ongoing support available to educators. Teachers have round-the-clock access to resource coaches and tech support, ensuring they can address any difficulties or questions that arise during the integration process.
In addition to English, all modules are available in multiple languages, including Spanish, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Mandarin, and Russian. This inclusivity expands the reach of Prisms, making STEM education accessible to diverse student populations.
Cost Considerations
Investing in Prisms is designed to provide maximum value for schools. The essential classroom setup includes 35 VR headsets and chargers, all provided for $20,000 per classroom. The software cost is based on usage, falling between $12 to $14 per student, depending on the scale of use. This pricing model is crafted to safeguard educational institutions from excessive costs while ensuring high-quality learning experiences.
Tips and Tricks for Educators
To maximize the benefits of Prisms, educators can consider the following tips:
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Utilize Support Resources: Engage with the training and ongoing support provided by Prisms to make the most of this innovative platform.
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Lead with Interactive Experiences: Use VR experiences as core teaching tools to introduce new STEM concepts where students can explore and discover independently.
- Monitor Progress with the Teacher Dashboard: Take advantage of the Teacher Dashboard to monitor student engagement and understanding in real time, ensuring that no student falls behind.
Prisms stands at the forefront of education innovation, providing educators with the tools needed to create immersive and engaging STEM learning experiences. By embracing this technology, teachers can equip their students with a deeper understanding and appreciation for math and science, preparing them for the challenges of the future.
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