How Immersive Tech Transforms Learning: Rob Theriault

In today’s episode, I chat with Rob Theriault, President Canadian Chapter of Immersive Learning Research Network, author, innovator, researcher, and speaker. Rob is also the Immersive Technology Manager at Georgian College. 

Located just outside of Toronto, Ontario, Georgian College is a world leader in XR exploration and integration, with pilot initiatives running across multiple disciplines.  Rob spent the first 35 years’ of his career as a paramedic, and he has over 20 years’ of teaching experience within the profession. Rob was also one of our 60 speakers at the Global HR Summit bringing a breadth of experiences at the intersection of paramedicine and immersive technology. 

We spent our time together discussing Rob’s path to his latest role at Georgian. Tasked with exploring, adopting and integrating immersive technology into existing curriculum, Rob is helping Georgian bridge the gap. We talk about the future of technology in learning, how teaching roles in post-secondary institutions are evolving, alongside his broader predictions for the future. 

It was such a pleasure reconnecting with Rob. And I hope you enjoy it.


Rob Theriault

Rob Theriault is the Immersive Technology Manager for Georgian College. Prior to taking this position, Rob was a 35 year veteran paramedic and former Critical Care Flight Paramedic. Rob also taught paramedics for over 20 years. After introducing virtual reality into the paramedic program at Georgian and helping to create a VR hub in the library, Rob was asked to lead the exploration and integration of VR for Georgian’s eight campuses.

In just over two years, with over 300 VR headsets, Georgian has launched approximately sixteen virtual reality pilots for Indigenous language learning, Veterinary Technician, Biotech, Paramedic, Nursing, Power Engineering, Events Management, Trades and others. Georgian is now regarded as one of the world leaders in the exploration and integration of virtual reality as a learning medium.

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Matt Burns

Matt Burns is an award-winning executive, social entrepreneur and speaker. He believes in the power of community, simplicity & technology.

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