Virtual Open Days in Education
Virtual open days have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the ease of access and convenience they offer, more schools, colleges, and universities are opting for virtual tech to showcase their campuses and programmes to prospective students.
What are Virtual Open Days?
Virtually structured open days are online events that allow prospective students to explore campuses, courses, and programmes from the comfort of their homes. They typically feature virtual tours, presentations from faculty and staff, Q&A sessions, and live chats with current students. These virtual experiences can be accessed from anywhere in the world, making them an excellent option for international students or those who are unable to attend in-person events.
Examples of Virtual Open Days
Several schools, colleges, and universities have adopted virtual tech for open days in order to attract prospective students. Here are some examples:
- University of Oxford Virtual Open Days
The University of Oxford offers virtually based open days for both undergraduate and graduate students. The event features pre-recorded content, including campus tours, subject presentations, and Q&A sessions with admissions staff.
- Harvard University Virtual Tour
Harvard University offers a virtual tour of its campus, which includes 360-degree panoramic views of academic buildings, residence halls, and landmarks.
- Imperial College London Virtual Open Day
Imperial College London’s virtual version of an open day features live Q&A sessions with staff and students, virtual tours of facilities, and course-specific presentations.
These examples here have been created by our award winning team at Circus.
Increasing Student Applications
Virtual reality can enhance the open day experience and increase student applications and satisfaction. Here are some ways virtual reality can be used:
- Virtual Campus Tours
Virtual campus tours can provide an immersive experience for prospective students. By using virtual reality technology, students can explore campuses as if they were there in person. This can help students get a better understanding of the campus layout, facilities, and resources available.
- Virtual Classrooms
Virtual classrooms can be used to showcase what a typical class might look like. Students can experience what it’s like to sit in a lecture hall or participate in a seminar, giving them a taste of what their academic experience might be like.
- Virtual Reality Simulations
Virtual reality simulations can provide hands-on experience for students. For example, medical schools can use virtual reality simulations to train students in surgical procedures or diagnostic tests. This can help students gain practical experience and prepare for their future careers.
Recap…
Virtual open days have become an increasingly popular way for schools, colleges, and universities to showcase their campuses and programs to prospective students. They offer convenience and ease of access, allowing students to explore campuses from anywhere in the world. Virtual reality can enhance the open day experience and increase student applications and satisfaction. By providing an immersive experience for students, schools, colleges, and universities can attract more prospective students and provide a more engaging and informative experience.