How to use 3D in the classroom effectively

Photo: Laura Devaney

Laura Devaney, Managing Editor writes, "A new report sheds some light on 3D learning, and offers steps to help educators guarantee that 3D lessons have a positive impact on students."

3D in the Classroom: See Well, Learn Well Public Health Report (PDF)

Although some people report headaches or other problems from viewing 3D images, that’s not a reason for educators to shy away from using 3D in the classroom, optometrists say. In fact, the use of 3D images in school can help diagnose vision problems among students at an earlier age and can enhance teaching and learning.

That’s the conclusion of a new report on 3D use in K-12 schools, which says headaches that occur while or just after watching 3D video are one of the most common reasons why people opt not to experience 3D. This problem could indicate vision failure, optometrists say—something that 3D use in schools could help identify in children.

The report, titled “3D in the Classroom: See Well, Learn Well Public Health Report,” published by the American Optometric Association (AOA), describes a series of recommendations that can help schools use 3D technology in a way that enables students to “thrive and learn more efficiently in [many] subjects; better preparing them for life and advancing career challenges ahead.”

“3D approaches to learning can serve as a fulcrum for enhanced teaching and improved assurance of school readiness,” says AOA President Dori Carlson.

The report describes ways to manage the classroom environment for optimizing 3D use in the classroom, as well as how best to manage the 3D glasses, 3D content, and viewing difficulties.

3D and your eyes 


Some examples include:

• Always preview the 3D materials. This requires the teacher to have appropriate vision health as well.
• Identify general student health issues in advance.
• Ensure that students keep the glasses off until the 3D content is ready to view.
• Keep the transitions within and between the 3D images smooth and slow.
• If students are feeling dizzy or nauseous, take the glasses off immediately and have them close their eyes for 10 seconds or look at a distant object.
• The teacher should avoid repeatedly looking from screen to class and back again. This can provoke uncomfortable effects for the teacher.

Many more tips are given in the report.
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Source: eSchool News and aoaweb's Channel (YouTube)