Virtual field trip project wins teaching award for improving access to geology fieldwork
The award recognises a pioneering approach to teaching that is helping to make fieldwork more inclusive while giving all students new ways to prepare for hands-on learning.
An innovative virtual field trip designed to make geology fieldwork more accessible has earned Birkbeck's Immersive Learning Centre (ILC) and Steve Hirons, Teacher and Researcher in the School of Natural Sciences, the Vice-Chancellor's Team Award for Excellence in Teaching and Learning.
The pilot project was inspired by student feedback highlighting the need to improve access to fieldwork for students with neurodiverse or physical disabilities. Fieldwork forms a significant part of several programmes, including the accredited BSc Geology degree that Mr Hirons teaches on, with students completing 30 days of residential field classes during their studies. For students unable to attend in person, the team developed an immersive virtual alternative that allows students to explore field sites remotely while preparing for future residential trips.
Working in partnership, the ILC team trained Mr Hirons to use specialist technologies, including drones, 360-degree imaging and 3D scanning, alongside ThingLink, a platform for creating interactive learning resources that students can access via a computer, mobile device or virtual reality headset.
To create the experience, they captured video, imagery and rock samples at a former quarry in Sevenoaks, Kent, now a nature reserve and designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Drone footage and 360-degree imagery allow students to explore areas that are difficult to access, while interactive 3D models enable them to closely examine rock formations and specimens.
As well as providing an accessible alternative to fieldwork, the virtual experience helps students prepare for residential trips by introducing them to the environment, logistics and safety considerations before they attend in person.
Mr Hirons commented:
"I owe much gratitude to the ILC team for sharing my vision, their generous offer to train me in the use of the equipment and understand its limitations, their expertise with the various software required and their patience in teaching me and answering my many questions. The student feedback so far is incredibly positive and we will be using the pilot material as a precursor to the 10-day residential fieldwork module in the Summer term, after which we can conduct a full impact assessment."
The project has already attracted recognition beyond Birkbeck. Artec, the manufacturer of the 3D scanner used in the project, produced a case study showcasing the work, and Mr Hirons was invited to demonstrate the immersive field trip to Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Chancellor of the University of London, during the official opening of Birkbeck Central.
In recognising projects such as this, the Vice-Chancellor's Awards celebrate the creativity and collaboration that underpin outstanding teaching at Birkbeck, and the positive impact it has on students' learning.