MOOC Overview

The purpose of these modules is to support teachers in discovering, understanding, and applying 360° video technology in their classrooms. Through step-by-step guidance, examples, and practical exercises, the course aims to make immersive media approachable and useful for everyday teaching, especially in STEM and project-based learning.

Background and Rationale

Research shows that while many teachers are still unfamiliar with 360° video and often feel they lack the technical skills to use it, this technology holds significant potential to enrich teaching and promote student motivation and engagement. In environmental and sustainability education in particular, 360° video has been found to improve learning outcomes, foster a greater sense of presence, and strengthen the connection between students and real-world challenges compared to traditional learning materials.

This MOOC is designed to bridge the gap between research and classroom practice. Module 1 provides an orientation to the platform and introduces digital content basics. Module 2 explores why 360° matters, offering practical classroom examples, research insights, and tips for finding and using existing content. Module 3 focuses on the "how" of 360° video - covering vocabulary, equipment, filming strategies, and classroom-friendly production workflows. Module 4 shifts to project-based learning (PBL), outlining its core principles and showing how it connects with STEM and scientific practices. Finally, Module 5 brings everything together, presenting guidelines and examples for integrating 360° video into STEM and PBL, and supporting teachers in designing their own units.

Module 1: Welcome & How to Use This Course

Start here. Meet Eco360, learn the course structure, how to navigate each module, and what you’ll do every time: read/watch, try a quick activity, then take a short quiz. Check the tech and time needs, retake policy, and where to find help before you begin. Includes certification steps & course map.

Estimated time: half an hour

Module 2: Why 360°? Practical Classroom Examples and Finding Content

Discover why 360° media can boost sustainability and STEM learning. Compare 360° vs flat video research, explore virtual field trips, and see classroom-ready examples. You’ll also learn where to find quality 360° content and how to choose resources that fit your lesson goals. Plus sourcing tips too.

Estimated time: 3–4 hours

Module 3: What Is 360 and Recommendations

Learn what 360° video is, the difference between monoscopic and stereoscopic, and what specs really matter. Get practical gear recommendations, then follow a simple capture→edit→share workflow (phone/tablet friendly). Finish with comfort, safety, and privacy tips for classroom use. Plus quick demos.

Estimated time: 3–4 hours

Module 4: Project-Based Learning Foundations

Build PBL foundations. Learn how project-based learning differs from “doing a project,” explore the key elements (driving question, inquiry, authenticity, student voice, critique, public product), and connect PBL to scientific and engineering practices. Sketch a first project outline for your class.

Estimated time: 3–4 hours

Module 5 - Scientifically Research-Based Guidelines for Integrating 360° Media Into Project-Based Learning

Use research-based guidelines to integrate 360° media into project-based learning (PBL). Learn where 360° fits in a lesson (hook, concept building, investigation, product), scaffold viewing, manage cognitive load, and boost presence. Then complete a practical exercise you can reuse with students.

Estimated time: 3–4 hours

Certification quiz

Complete the final Certification quiz (random questions from Modules 2–5). Score 80% or higher to unlock a downloadable certificate PDF. Print it and fill in your name and school. If you score below 80%, you’ll see a “try again” message and can retake anytime. No penalties; progress stays yours too.

Estimated time: 1–2 hours