Virtual field courses: Widening access to ecosystems - STEM Conference 2018

We are creating a library of interactive 360° photos to improve cohort integration and engagement through opportunities to experience (virtual) field environments. Students can use the library to achieve three potential objectives: to facilitate their own learning through prior access to the field environment; to develop field biology skills without direct access to field environments; and to familiarise themselves with novel habitats and/or ecosystems (V1 V2). We are using regular engagements with staff and students to provide feedback on the tours which we use to change and enhance current and future tours. We report users’ experience of the tours as they control their movements and interact with additional content.