Mathematical models for teaching three-dimensional geometry using virtual reality

We live in the world surrounded by things of diverse shapes and dimensions. Geometry is entrenched in our life and despite being one the oldest forms of mathematics it continues to be a challenge ...

In a rapidly changing world, the use of new technology in is one of the most important challenges in modern education systems. The Covid-19 pandemic and the quick (yet forced) adaptation to a virtual teaching environment is the best proof of the potential that is yet to explore in education. Teaching programs need to reflect the needs and tendencies and adopt new tools and methodologies in order to enhance study objectives and students’ motivation. The project relied on creating an international network of researchers, academic teachers and practitioners specializing in the use of VR to teach maths. A geometry teaching program was built upon a virtual reality logic and provide the students with VR modules for solving geometry problems. The Math3DgeoVR project is about merging new technologies in higher education, and actually combines geometry learning and virtual reality.

The mathematics teaching program has been revised and adapted by the inclusion of a VR application with different problems concerning three-dimensional geometry. The created VR application (Math3DgeoVR application with 13 modules) supported teachers and students during classes. Within the project there were various activities implemented - regular meeting among academic staff connected with geometry issues, regular IT team meetings, project consotrium meetings (online and on-site), testing with teachers (multiplier events), testing with students (summer school in Aveiro + local testing sessions), promoting the project during various meetings and conferences.