Virtual Reality, STEM

Oculus Launches Virtual Reality Program in High Schools

The new initiative provides students with VR equipment to create short films on social issues.

• By Sri Ravipati
• 05/16/16

Oculus has announced a new pilot program for high school students to use virtual reality as a tool for social change.

As part of the VR for Good initiative, the 360 Filmmaker Challenge will connect nine San Francisco Bay Area high schools with professional filmmakers to create three- to five- minute 360 degree films about their communities. Students will receive a Samsung Gear VR, a Galaxy S6, Ricoh Theta S 360 cameras and access to editing software to make their films, according to Oculus.

Through the use of the VR technology, the 360 Filmmaker Challenge aims to teach students to develop new technology and production skills and explore STEM careers and higher education opportunities, according to the company. At the end of the six-week program, the student videos will be available on Facebook and in Oculus Video.