Google's low-cost Cardboard virtual reality (VR) kit allows students to enjoy the next big thing in the commercial tech world. The search giant's educational Expedition program, which includes a smartphone, tablet, Cardboard fold-out mount or Mattel View-master 3D device, and router could be a game-changer.
VR can have a major impact on education, making audio-visual lectures more interesting and interactive than ordinary books and print media. Google's Expedition program is one example.
The Expedition kit includes an Asus Zenphone 2 and tablet computer for the teacher. It also has a Cardboard or Mattel View-master, and router to run Expedition offline, according to Android Headlines.
Google's educational program introduces pupils to VR and to-it-yourself (DIY) kits. It was launched in May. That is when the search giant also unveiled Cardboard 2, which supports Android and iOS platforms.
Expedition also features Google teaming up with content providers such as PBS, The Wildlife Conservation Society, and The Planetary Society. Students can take VR treks to places ranging from the ocean's floor to distant planets.
The program also features its Streetview footage, and a 16-camera GoPro rig. It is free and the devices are loaned out.
Google first introduced tech to the education sector with its Apps for Education program in 2006. Since then Microsoft, Facebook and Skype have also announced educational programs.
In fact, Microsoft will hand out its VR headsets at the VR hackathon in Russia in a couple of weeks, according to Wired. The Microsoft VR Kit is displayed on a Lumia phone's screen.
Google's Expedition pilot program will launch first in the United Kingdom, Australia, Brazil, and New Zealand. It will then kick off in the United States.
Here is a review of Google Cardboard 2.0: