The perfect blend of pedagogy and
cutting-edge technology.
All you need to do is put on a VR headset, and you immediately find yourself in the role of a teacher in the middle of a 3D model of a modern classroom. Around you is a class of interactive avatars who are far from passive observers – they raise their hands, ask questions, talk to one another, and can also be disruptive and test your boundaries.
Variety in teaching approaches
Testing different teaching strategies and instructional formats.
Individual approach
Communication techniques suited to students of different ages and temperaments.
Classroom management
Working effectively with the space and the dynamics of the whole group.
Critical moments
Responding promptly to unexpected or emotionally charged situations.
From idea to collaboration
The project grew out of an effort to push the boundaries of practical teacher preparation. Real teaching practice in schools is irreplaceable, but it also has its limits – it is time-constrained, and student teachers only rarely encounter critical situations that call for immediate practice.
That is why experts from the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen joined forces to create a tool capable of simulating real teaching situations. Together, they developed a unique project with no equivalent in the Czech educational context.
- Teacher educators developed the pedagogical framework and the scenarios.
- Technical specialists developed the virtual reality environment.
What VRClass offers
Standing in front of real students without prior experience is stressful. We created a safe space where teachers can make mistakes virtually so they can succeed in real classrooms.
Intensive training
Working through short, focused teaching situations.
In-depth reflection
Receiving immediate feedback from instructors and fellow students.
Measurable progress
The opportunity to observe how skills improve with each new attempt.
The virtual classroom has proven to be a space that:
Complements real teaching practice
It offers training for situations that are often not addressed during teaching practice.
Connects theory and practice
It naturally links theoretical knowledge with its practical application.
Allows for repetition
Unlike real life, it allows the same situation to be repeated until the student can handle it with confidence.
Current development
The VRClass project is constantly evolving. We are currently working on a new generation of the simulator that will bring a range of improvements. Its development involves a broad interdisciplinary team – from programmers and graphic designers to psychologists and experts in general and subject-specific pedagogy. We also involve faculty members, PhD students, and students themselves.
Maximum realism
A new classroom model designed based on real school classroom layouts.
More lifelike interaction
A new visual design for student avatars with more nuanced facial expressions and gestures
New subject-specific scenarios
An expansion of simulations for particular subjects and specific teaching situations.
Training in communication with parents
A unique simulation of challenging situations, such as parent-teacher conferences or consultations.
Where are we headed?
Today, VRClass represents a dynamic platform for teaching, cutting-edge research, and educational innovation. Our goal is not only to simulate reality, but to actively shape modern standards in teacher preparation. Looking ahead, we plan to expand the platform with new teaching scenarios and personalised feedback features.
All of this is made possible by new research projects:
PAIDAGO
- VR EPI
“Our goal is for VRClass to help student teachers develop professional confidence, practical skills, and the ability to learn from their own experience – before they enter a real classroom.”