Aplication of virtual reality technology in biology education in Vlora, Albania

Technology is everywhere--entwined in almost every part of our culture. It affects how we live, work, play, and most importantly how we learn. With mobile and other wireless devices like the IoT becoming an increasing requirement across every industry today, it only makes sense that our schools are also effectively deploying technology in the classroom. The impact that technology has had on today’s schools has been quite significant. This widespread adoption of technology has completely changed how teachers teach and students learn. Teachers are learning how to teach with emerging technologies (tablets, iPods, Smart Boards, digital cameras, computers), while students are using advanced technology to shape how they learn. Technology occupies an important place within students’ lives. When they are not in school, just about everything that they do is connected in some way to technology. By integrating technology into the classroom, teachers are changing the way they used to teach (lectures six hours a day). Examples of technology that are relatively simple include overhead projectors and televisions. Then we have the slightly more advanced uses of technology such as lab equipment (microscopes, virtual labs, kits for sequencing DNA etc.). In this study, students investigate how to use technology to deepen and broaden their knowledge, specifically that of biology. Students will learn the importance of scientific research. The method used for acquiring the necessary data is from the use of questionnaires and tests. The study is focused on classes in the private and public schools. During teaching hours, beside the traditional method, were used computers and projectors to better describe various elements of biology. During laboratory hours, with the help of simulators and virtual laboratories, they were able to practice firsthand what was learned during lectures, for example, by using 3-D simulators that are able to simulate elements of biology, students learn more about molecules, ADN, proteins. In the end, the results of the questionnaires form the different classes, those using the simulators and those not using them, were compared, to see which method yielded the better results and benefited more.