Students from Mendooran Central School got a taste of the future this week as they participated in the On the Road with Optus roadshow featuring virtual and augmented reality workshops in partnership with Think Digital.
Located onboard a hi-tech, 14-metre-long coach, more than 80 students at the school were taken through immersive virtual and augmented reality experiences relevant to their current curriculum and covering topics including space, sustainability, history and geography to engage, educate and inspire students.
Tom ODea, Optus Territory Manager for Central West New South Wales, said he was thrilled to bring the roadshow to Mendooran Central School to give students in Grades 3 to 6 the opportunity to experience virtual and augmented reality technologies first hand.
The On the Road with Optus roadshow enables regional schools to experience the latest in thought leadership and technologies through interactive, in-school workshops led by trained facilitators, Mr ODea said.
It is a privilege to partner with Think Digital for the roadshow, as they are renowned for creating immersive experiences using virtual and augmented reality to engage, educate and inspire a range of audiences.
I am hugely passionate about empowering students to be digitally educated and confident; ensuring they understand how they can shape their future for the better. The On the Road with Optus roadshow and the interactive sessions involved are key to enhancing students digital literacy.
The visit to Mendooran is special as it follows on from Optus visit to the community in March this year where we donated 36,000 litres of water to support local residents dealing with the very worst of the current drought, Mr ODea added.
Mendooran Central School Principal Gianni Standing said, We were very appreciative of the opportunity Optus provided our students to enhance their learning through new technologies.
All of the students were thoroughly engaged and very excited on the day. We look forward to utilising virtual reality in our teaching and learning programs in the future.
The On the Road with Optus roadshow is a continuation of Optus recent work in March where STEM training was provided to over 1,000 Grade 6 students in various public schools across regional New South Wales; demonstrating an approach to learning that integrates science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Optus empowers the next generation to learn, achieve their potential and enjoy a bright future. The On the Road with Optus roadshow in partnership with Think Digital will take place across two weeks, visiting Grade 3 to 6 students in Mudgee, Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst, Yass, Parkes and Mendooran.
