VR-enhanced Immersive Science Investigations into Biology and Genetics

Verdant will be an immersive virtual reality (VR) experience for high school biology students focusing on Mendel's investigation into the heredity of pea plants and the basis of genetics. In Verdant, students revisit Mendel's scientific process by designing and running open-ended crossbreeding experiments at the macroscopic and microscopic levels and recording results, as Mendel did, but in hours instead of years. Verdant is implemented over 2 to 4 weeks and includes time in the immersive VR environment and for classroom discussions. Teachers will serve as coaches and facilitators, guiding students when necessary, monitoring student progress, and offering just-in-time instruction to answer questions and reinforce key concepts and skills.