AP European History Students Study Renaissance Art Through Virtual Reality

St. Margaret’s AP European history class is finding virtual reality to be a strong research tool as they explore visual elements of one of the world’s most transformational time periods.   

The class is studying the Renaissance, and exploring its art and architecture which continues to influence the world today. To get deeper insights into some of the classic artwork of that time period, from Mona Lisa to David to Pieta’, students in the class are exploring the art through virtual reality.

AP European history teacher Simon Fellowes collaborated with computer science teacher Tim Sinnott to set up the immersive experience this week. Using a program titled “The VR Museum of Fine Art,” students are able to view Renaissance masterpieces in vivid detail from unlimited angles. The program allows for a self-guided tour of a museum full of art from around the world, all in one virtual location.

 “Art and architecture are such important elements of the Renaissance,” Mr. Fellowes said. “I wanted the students to get a more interactive experience with the art than simply looking at a picture of it. This is a really interesting alternative when the artwork is so far away.”

After each student explores within the VR program, they will contribute to an online discussion board set up by Mr. Fellowes to share their thoughts and takeaways.   

“They will get to connect the characteristics of the art to the characteristics of this period in European history,” Mr. Fellowes said.

St. Margaret’s virtual reality program has been funded through generous support from the PTF. The school purchased two HTC Vive headsets last year, and the PTF grant program funded additional VR stations to be set up at each maker space on campus this year.