The Experiential Learning Hub is excited to introduce two new immersive experiences developed in collaboration with the Office of the Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Teaching, Learning and Research and the Carleton Immersive Media Studio (CIMS).
The Indigenous Virtual Learning Space is an innovative collection of immersive and virtual reality (VR) experiences. They provide students the opportunity to engage with the Haudenosaunee worldview and cultural practices when in-person field trips are not possible. These experiences can be used across various disciplines and courses, providing an Indigenous perspective on a range of topics, including biology, waterways, language, Longhouse structures and cultural artifacts, as well as family and social structures.
Both experiences will be supported by a curated collection of pedagogical resources, including suggested readings, activities and discussion guides, similar to the Collaborative Indigenous Learning Bundles. These resources are set to launch in early October.
We are currently seeking instructors to pilot one of these experiences in their fall or winter classes:
Tsi tewateriweiastáhkwa (a place where we learn)
This 3D VR Longhouse experience offers students an immersive, interactive learning opportunity. Learners wander and learn within a virtual Haudenosaunee environment. Guided by the instructor, learners engage with natural and cultural elements in a Seneca Longhouse and surrounding landscape. By clicking on objects, they learn about Indigenous knowledge and language. Watch this short introductory video to learn more about the project and its teaching applications.
wa’ötši’gwa:to’ (she dropped in for a short while)
A 360-degree cinematic Longhouse experience surrounds students with the sights and sounds of Seneca land. They are welcomed as visitors with a ceremony at the edge of the forest and then invited into the Longhouse village. It is a powerful and low-tech entry point into VR, which can serve as a valuable conversation starter for in-class discussions and assignments. Watch the trailer and imagine transporting your students to this engaging journey.
Book Your Consultation with the Experiential Learning Hub
If you are interested in trying out an Indigenous Virtual Learning Space experience or have questions about how to integrate them into your course, please connect with us.