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Meta Partners with UK Startup Bodyswaps to Bring VR Learning to 100 Colleges and Universities

  • By Kate Lucariello
  • 11/22/22

UK virtual reality (VR) soft skills company Bodyswaps and Meta Immersive Learning have announced a partnership to give 100 colleges and universities across the U.K., U.S., Ireland, Canada, France, and Belgium access to VR hardware and software through $150 million in grants from Meta and Bodyswaps' full soft skills learning library.

Bodswaps will provide grantees with unlimited free access to its learning library, focusing on soft skills career training through realistic simulations and AI-enabled feedback using the XR learning platform. "Students can practice and fail safely without repercussions while building the communication, teamwork and leadership skills needed for successful careers," Bodyswaps said. Institutions can choose which modules and courses they want, such as clear communication, active listening, resolving conflict, job interview skills, and others.

Meta Immersive Learning is investing $150 million in grants to "help develop the next generation of metaverse creators," it said, and will supply Meta Quest 2 VR headsets. "To understand the true value and potential of immersive technologies for learning, we must first increase access and opportunity to nonprofits, educational institutions, and key communities," said Leticia Jauregui, Global Head of Meta Immersive Learning. Grant applications are open now and will close Dec. 20, 2022. Visit this page to apply.

To learn more about Bodyswaps, visit their main page. Read more about how Meta Immersive Learning is engaged in increasing access to learning through technology.

About the Author

Kate Lucariello is a former newspaper editor, EAST Lab high school teacher and college English teacher.

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