LEAD High Schoolers Venture Into Virtual Reality to Explore Real-World Math Concepts
If you find yourself in a LEAD high school math classroom, you may stumble across a futuristic lesson in progress. Students have ventured into the world of virtual reality (VR) this school year in order to explore mathematical concepts in a fresh way. 
“The Prisms VR program is a virtual reality platform designed to enhance the learning experience for high school students, particularly in the field of mathematics and science,” said Joshua Jackson, a math teacher at LEAD Southeast High who is using the technology in his lessons. “It utilizes immersive VR technology to create interactive and engaging learning environments that make complex math concepts more accessible and understandable for adolescent students.”
Prisms VR technology launched in schools across the nation in 2021, and both LEAD high schools began using this innovative tool this school year, thanks to generous donations from our LEAD Public Schools supporters.
The Prisms VR technology includes VR content modules for students to deepen their understanding of core math concepts, a multiplayer element for additional practice, teaching materials, and a web-based dashboard to support learning.
This unique learning opportunity brings a new sense of relevance to our students’ math classes. The VR technology is allowing students to flex their technological skills while also applying their math learning to real-world scenarios they could encounter in future careers.
“The capacity to think and solve problems is so crucial. Prisms does this through the interactive modules, but I also want to point out the tangible scenarios the modules build on,” said Jacob Maestri, a math teacher at LEAD Academy. “In our VR experiences, my classes have tackled the effects of rising sea levels, the spread of infectious diseases, and operating an air traffic control tower. These are experiences that make math tangible, real, and necessary for every student.”
“VR is a great way to make math hands-on and fun. Students get to do cool activities like build a green space for New York City. They love a different experience in math class!” –Alicia Vas, Teacher at LEAD Academy.
Students have responded positively to this new way of learning. “They find it engaging, interactive, and exciting, which has increased their motivation to learn math,” said Jackson. “The immersive nature of VR helps students overcome learning barriers and fosters a sense of curiosity and exploration. Whenever the carts come out with the headsets, students are immediately excited to start a lesson!”
“Many students who didn’t get it on paper or pencil, or in groups, or in review, get the concepts in fresh ways through this VR experience.” – Jacob Maestri, Teacher at LEAD Academy.
Not only have students benefited from the VR experience, but teachers are also growing as a result of this innovative approach. “Integrating VR technology into my teaching has challenged me to explore new teaching methods and adapt my instructional approach to meet the needs of digital-native students,” said Jackson. “It has expanded my toolkit for delivering engaging and effective lessons, and has encouraged me to stay updated with advancements in educational technology.”
“It’s really a privilege to learn and adapt to the latest in pedagogical methods and I’m glad to work at a place like LEAD that offers that for teachers.” –Jacob Maestri, Teacher at LEAD Academy.
It is because of our donors that this exciting new learning opportunity is available to both students and educators in our high schools. To give to LEAD Public Schools for future projects like this, visit our page here.
