The teaching and learning processes are undergoing a significant transformation, and immersive technologies are at the forefront of this phenomenon. Therefore, it is crucial for educators to have a comprehensive understanding of the innovative applications of emerging technologies to pave the way for new teaching methods.
With the full immersion provided by these technologies, it is now possible to create engaging learning environments that allow students to explore complex concepts in practical, enjoyable, and motivating ways.
During the plenary session, a historical perspective on the evolution of technological resources will be presented, along with the state-of-the-art in innovative applications of immersive technologies in education, with a special emphasis on initial teacher training.
In this context, case studies will be presented to illustrate the transformation of educational scenarios using Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR), and other three-dimensional visualization systems (e.g., portable domes). Platforms for obtaining and developing content for immersive technologies will also be introduced.
This will also allow for a discussion on the use of immersive simulations for training and skill development in specialized and technical professions, where students can develop and refine competencies in virtual environments before facing real-world situations.
Pedro Correia Rodrigues holds a PhD in Biology and is completing a second PhD in Didactics of Science and Technology. He is currently an Invited Adjunct Professor at the School of Education of the Polytechnic Institute of Porto (ESE-P.Porto), within the Technical-Scientific Unit of Mathematics, Sciences, and Technologies. Since 2015, he has taught and been responsible for various curricular units in the fields of Natural Sciences, Sustainable Development, and Educational Technologies, in Master's, Bachelor's, and Vocational Courses. He is also involved in continuous teachers training in STEAM Education subjects.
He is an Integrated Researcher at inED – Centre for Research & Innovation in Education. His research in Didactics of Science and Technology focuses on the use of digital fabrication, educational robotics, immersive technologies, microcontrollers, and sensors as pedagogical and epistemic tools in Natural Sciences teaching, both at the Basic Education and Higher Education levels. His research in Applied Biology focuses on Ecology, Biodiversity Management and species’ spatial tracking.