S11: E2 Beyond the Screen: Social Learning with VOISS in VR environments with Dr. Sean Smith

Summary:
In this week's episode, we delve into the cutting-edge realm of virtual reality (VR) technology, specifically tailored to assist students in mastering problem-solving within social contexts through simulated scenarios mirroring real-world challenges. Our guest, Sean Smith, serves as the Principal Investigator for Project VOISS, alongside his role as a professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Kansas. Sean provides valuable insights into the project's overarching goal: fostering knowledge and skills acquisition through evidence-based practices geared towards addressing social issues among middle school-aged students. VOISS stands as a groundbreaking computer-based VR platform, immersing students in diverse school environments such as classrooms, buses, and hallways. Here, they navigate through interactive social narratives and confront situations demanding problem-solving skills. Join us as we uncover the innovative strategies behind VOISS, aimed at empowering students with essential social competencies for navigating the complexities of the real world.

Resources:
VOISS Advisor: https://voissadvisor.org/  

Sean Smith Email: [email protected] 

Highlights:
-Targeting Social Competence: Providing immersive experiences for individuals lacking social skills. 

-Evidence-Based Practice: Focus on developing social knowledge and skills through proven methods. 

-Simulated Educational Environment: Students engage in less immersive VR scenarios mimicking school challenges. 

-Guided Interaction: Narrator and coach guide students through scenarios, interacting with avatars. 

-Targeted Questions & Skill Transfer: Children are prompted to respond to questions tailored to individual growth needs. These questions help guide them to make decisions/ mistakes and gain consequences in a confined environment. They can learn from them and apply them in real-life situations.  

-Domain Application: Receptive and expressive communication domains crucial, with applications in school, home, and community settings. 

-Practical Classroom Implementation: Steps outlined for middle schoolers, aligning curriculum with targeted skills and domains.