University Centre Askham Bryan Awarded Advance HE Innovative Practice Grant for Pioneering Use of Immersive Technology in Biosciences Education

University Centre Askham Bryan (UCAB) has been recognised nationally for its innovative approach to teaching and learning, receiving an Innovative Practice Grant from Advance HE under the theme ‘Designing Education for the Future’. UCAB is one of just 20 institutions across the UK to be awarded this grant, which is designed to support forward-thinking initiatives in small, specialist, and college-based higher education providers.

The £500 grant supports the development of case studies showcasing impactful educational practices. UCAB’s submission focused on the integration of immersive technologies, specifically augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) to help enhance learning outcomes in biosciences.

The initiative was developed in response to student feedback showing that certain science modules were particularly challenging. In collaboration with the digital learning team, academic staff introduced AR and VR tools to deliver complex topics in a more engaging and memorable way. These immersive sessions helped improve students’ memory and understanding, leading to increased module satisfaction, higher average grades, and improved pass rates. It also created a greater sense of community among students while also enhancing key employability skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem solving.

Dr Rana Parween, lecturer in Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, and Sustainability, said: “The interactive nature of virtual reality transforms students from passive to active learners, boosting their motivation and giving them greater control over their learning pace. I’ve seen notable improvements in retention and achievement in modules where immersive technology has been used.”

Student feedback has also been overwhelmingly positive. Heidi Wright, a first-year BSc (Hons) Animal Bioscience student, commented: “VR is becoming more commonly used across many leading industries. It’s important for students to experience its benefits as part of their education.”

Postgraduate student Luke Durston added: “I really enjoyed the VR lesson on sustainable energy. The interactive experience helped me visualise and engage with the concepts in a practical and memorable way. It made learning more accessible and dynamic.”

Following the success, immersive technologies are now being introduced across a wider range of UCAB courses, reinforcing Askham Bryan College’s ongoing commitment to digital innovation and preparing students for the demands of the modern workplace.

Askham Bryan College has also recently redeveloped its teaching block, reopening in January 2025. The new space offers innovative experiences such as motorsport and tractor simulators to further enrich student learning.