Pilot program explores integration of VR technology in biology curriculum
This semester, Citrus College is one of 20 community colleges in the state that will use immersive virtual reality to enhance student learning.
The new pilot program centers on Dreamscape Learn, an innovative platform that allows students to explore virtual scenarios and solve real-world problems from their computers.
Dr. Eric Rabitoy, biology instructor, is currently exploring the platform's software and evaluating how it can be integrated into future courses.
"This initiative has the full support of the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office and integrates directly with Canvas, creating a seamless transition between the real world and virtual reality for students," Rabitoy said. "It takes students on a different journey each week."
Customizable to meet faculty needs, Dreamscape Learn can be used for online, hybrid or in-person instruction. The software links with the content associated with general biology courses and allows students to apply what they have learned in class lectures to solve real-world problems.
The pilot program will run through the spring 2026 semester. When it concludes, the software will be offered to faculty for the summer 2026 session.
"The software will be made available, free of charge, to faculty within the biology program to use. It will support them in creating accessible, no-cost educational resources for their courses," Rabitoy said. "It will provide students with the opportunity to participate in a unique biological experience that is 100% free and will allow them to directly link their learning and apply it to solutions, therefore following the scientific process."
This article originally appeared in the November 2025 edition of the Citrus View.