Special Session—Student Engagement with Reduced Bias in a Virtual Classroom Environment

Abstract

Students are struggling with virtual learning while isolated at home. At the same time, they are outspoken about the real and lasting consequences of inherent bias in higher education systems and lack of motivation. Virtual Reality (VR) is a tool that could help reduce structural bias within the online classroom to engage a diverse community of students with meaningful interactions as they explore course learning materials. This interactive workshop will include a group discussion about the bias students face in classroom and attendees will participate in a VR class simulation modeling best practices for anonymous equitable learning using The Commons XR experience. Attendees will leave the session with ideas for how to reduce bias in educational experiences and engage students in the course material. Join us to explore the possibilities of a classroom environment that might help out the next generation of students to transcend the norms of today!