Last week, the Immersive Learning Symposium at the George Washington University School of Nursing brought together thought leaders, innovators, and educators to explore cutting-edge applications of immersive learning. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, the event featured a stellar lineup of presentations and hands-on experiences that showcased the transformative power of technology in education and training.

Opening Remarks

The event began with inspiring words from Dr. Susan Kelly-Weeder, Dean of the GW School of Nursing, and Dr. Crystel Farina, Associate Dean for BSN Programs. Their remarks set the tone for a day dedicated to pushing the boundaries of learning and creating impactful educational experiences.

Presentations that Inspired

The symposium featured a series of engaging presentations from industry leaders and experts:

1. Public Safety – VIPC Brain Trust Initiative
   Public Safety leaders discussed the VIPC Brain Trust, a collaborative initiative driving immersive learning innovation. They shared early findings and outlined plans for growth over the next three years, emphasizing the importance of scalable and impactful training solutions.

2. Culture Coach International
   In a session titled, “Structured Learning Paths and Micro-Learning with OrchestrateVR”, Culture Coach highlighted how they use the OrchestrateVR platform to create immersive micro-learning experiences. Their structured learning paths engage participants in just five minutes, delivering knowledge retention, specific learning outcomes, and actionable insights.

3. GW Nursing and AccessVR – CCF Grant Presentation
   The CCF award-winning team presented their innovative process for transforming live simulations into scalable immersive learning experiences. Their simple and cost-effective approach demonstrated how immersive learning can be made accessible to educators and trainers on any budget.

4. UVA Health
   UVA Health shared how their use of OrchestrateVR revolutionized their training process, reducing an expensive six-month development timeline to just four hours. This session showcased how VR can dramatically cut time and costs while maintaining the quality and impact of training programs.

5. The Great Experiment: Re-Debating the Electoral College in VR
   Led by Dr. Warren Hofstra, Dr. Mohammad Obeid, and JJ Ruscella, this groundbreaking project immersed participants in the historic debates over the U.S. Constitution. This collaboration with the National Center for the Constitution recreated Independence Hall in VR, providing a unique and interactive historical learning experience.

6. Apple Vision
   The day concluded with Apple’s presentation, highlighting the future of immersive learning through their Vision technology. This forward-looking session demonstrated how advanced tools are reshaping education and training across industries.

A Hands-On Immersive Experience

Attendees were treated to an interactive tour featuring the Avkin AvBirther, a state-of-the-art childbirth simulation device. Participants witnessed the creation of an immersive training module using OrchestrateVR, from initial concept to completion. The tour culminated with visitors donning VR headsets to experience the finished product, providing a firsthand look at the power of immersive learning.

Vendor Spotlights

The symposium wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our incredible vendors:

• Avkin: Revolutionizing healthcare training with realistic simulations.

• Apple: Advancing immersive learning with cutting-edge technology.

• Omnitale Productions: Crafting impactful VR storytelling.

• Rivere Ecological Center: Promoting ecological awareness through immersive experiences.

• Culture Coach International: Leading the way in DEI-focused micro-learning.

• UVA Health: Innovating cost-effective VR training solutions.

• Lighthouse: Scaling immersive learning with data-driven insights.

• Cleanbox: Ensuring hygiene and safety in shared headset environments.

Looking Ahead

The symposium showcased the transformative potential of immersive learning, demonstrating how innovation and collaboration can address challenges in education and training. From healthcare to public safety to historical education, the applications of immersive learning are limitless.

Thank you to all our presenters, vendors, and attendees for making this event a success. Together, we’re shaping the future of learning, one immersive experience at a time.

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