Comparing the Use of Virtual, Augmented, and Nature Walk-Based Field Trips in the Environmental Education of Children

Keywords: virtual reality, augmented reality, environment, education, accessibility, green space
Session Type: Virtual Poster Abstract
Day: Friday
Session Start / End Time: 2/25/2022 03:40 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/25/2022 05:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 73

Abstract

My PhD research is centered around a comparative analysis of virtual, augmented, and nature walk-based field trips of Camosun Bog, located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. I am interested in how these technologies can promote connection to nature, pro-environmental behavior, and ecological literacy in children who differ in their access to green space.

Educators are increasingly turning to VR and AR to facilitate environmental education as these technologies have been shown to increase learning achievement, communication between peers and knowledgeable others, motivation to learn, problem solving skills, and pro-environmental behavior. VR and AR can allow children to virtually access locations they otherwise could not while augmenting their outdoor experiences through the reification of environmental processes. They also have the potential to provide scaffolding across formal and informal environmental education programs.

This study uses a pre-test-post-test non-equivalent groups design to explore if differences exist across groups who differ in their access to green space for use in environmental education. First, virtual reality, augmented reality, and nature walk-based field trips have been co-developed with local community partners. Next, accessibility analysis of quality, urban green space for use in environmental education has been conducted for the Vancouver School District using network and equitability analysis. Difference scores calculated from pre-tests and post-tests will be compared across study groups using factorial ANOVA and post-hoc tests. Coding of semi-structured and child-centered interviews will also be used to provide explanation and context in this study.