Meta has officially launched its ‘Meta for Education’ initiative, transitioning from its beta phase to a fully available program. This development allows educational institutions worldwide to integrate Quest headsets and a suite of XR apps and software into their learning environments.
Initially introduced in April, Meta for Education offers educators a comprehensive package designed to enhance classroom learning through XR. This includes Quest headsets, XR management subscriptions tailored for educational settings, and a collection of tools and apps specifically crafted for administrators, educators, and students.
During the beta phase, Meta collaborated with colleges in both the US and UK to refine their platform. Feedback from educators highlighted how virtual and mixed reality applications boosted student engagement and deepened understanding of complex subjects.
Nick Clegg, Meta’s President of Global Affairs and a former UK Deputy Prime Minister, has been vocal about the transformative power of these immersive technologies. He emphasizes their ability to immerse students in otherwise unreachable scenarios, stating, “Improving the life chances of children through education has always been a focus of my career in politics and technology. Among all the technological advances at Meta, immersive experiences like VR and AR resonate with me due to their transformative potential in education.”
Clegg further expressed his ambitions for Meta for Education, aiming to simplify the learning and skill application process for students, foster a strong connection between teachers and peers, and provide access to experiences beyond traditional reach. His ultimate goal: empower teachers to excel in their craft.
In support of these claims, data from 43 Inspired Education Group schools already utilizing such technology reveals promising outcomes. A remarkable 87% of students felt more engaged, and 85% of teachers saw virtual and mixed reality as essential tools for enhancing their curriculums. Moreover, students showed a 15% improvement in their performance on multiple-choice tests.
This launch coincides with several collaborations with prominent institutions like Arizona State University, Imperial College London, and the University of Miami to weave VR into academic programs. Moreover, in partnership with VictoryXR, Meta has rolled out over 30 “metaversities,” using the Engage XR platform to offer digital twin campuses for remote learning. These digital campuses are now accessible to students at institutions like The University of Leeds in the UK, the University of the Basque Country in Spain, and the University of Hannover in Germany.
Educators intrigued by what Meta for Education offers can find more details on the program’s website, which includes application contacts for numerous countries, including Australia, Canada, and the US.
