Getting a preview of college life is a crucial step in helping K-12 students see college as an accessible, exciting possibility for their futures. Most times, that happens via a campus tour, but this summer, the University of Minnesota’s 4-H Campus Immersion program is giving their participants a unique and innovative chance to get to know campus – with the help of UMN Libraries.

Earlier this month, a group of 4-H students in grades 8 through 10 worked with Libraries’ staff and equipment to create 360 immersive videos. Working together in small groups, the students documented their three-day experience on campus using virtual reality (VR) cameras and other equipment available through the Libraries’ VR Studio.

The students not only documented their experiences, but then screened the films with their friends and family at a showcase, sharing the experience with their parents and those who will help them make decisions about their future.

Diving in

Thanks to smartphones, social media, and even school projects, most students are very comfortable and familiar with video recording. But 360 video is a different experience altogether, and there was quite a learning curve.

“The most interesting part was learning how to use the camera,” said Arya, a participant in the program. “You can’t just put it up against a wall. It’s not a regular camera, you’ve got to know what’s going on all around it.”

“I think it went well,” said Charlie Heinz, academic technologist and VR program lead for the Libraries, as he reflected on the process. “But there were some lessons learned. There was someone who had put a thumb on the lens, or they were recording really close to the camera, and had to reshoot and get further away. I talked with them about resilience. Be patient, try, and try again.”

In fact, practicing resilience is at the heart of this campus exploration program, UMN Extension Educator Ashley Purry pointed out. “Figuring out how to manage it for themselves; that’s the point. It’s an opportunity for them to figure out, ‘What do I need to do to be successful?’”

The students themselves were curious, engaged, and happy to talk about their favorite parts of the program. Sophie, while working with her team to edit video clips, shared how she enjoyed “being able to learn new things and also experience college, what that life is like.”

Bri Hall, Extension educator, saw ample evidence of student enthusiasm. She noticed their willingness to rise to the challenge. “They were really excited on day one about this being a different opportunity, and they’ve been really eager to film throughout the days.”

The showcase event

As much as the program introduces students to new technology and helps them develop new skills, the Libraries 360 video project also serves as a way for the program participants to share their experiences more vividly with their families. This is especially significant for first-generation students, whose family may not be familiar with American college campuses.

For Tomiwa, the aspect of the program she was most excited about was the final showcase — a chance for the students and their families to view the completed videos.

“Having the opportunity for others to experience it with us,” Tomiwa said, “I think that’s really interesting.”

Instead of watching on a flat screen, showcase attendees used the VR headsets at the Toaster Innovation Hub in Walter Library. It was a dynamic, memorable experience — all 360 degrees of it.

As the students plan for the next stage of their life, they will take this experience with them. “Being able to experience college life, it’s been a privilege,” said program participant Praise. “And it’s a privilege to work on video edits, and meet new people.”