Coimbatore Corporation to roll out AR-VR labs in more schools

The labs at schools will be set up this year, as the tender process is ongoing, says an Education Department official. | Photo Credit: File Photo

The Coimbatore Corporation is set to expand its innovative education initiative by introducing more augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) labs across its schools. This move comes after a successful pilot program in two city schools—Sidhapudur Corporation Girls High School and SRP Ammaniammal Girls Higher Secondary School—where AR-VR labs were set up at an estimated cost of ₹70 lakh each.

Teachers and students participating in the pilot reported highly positive experiences. Students in Class 8 noted that complex topics, especially in subjects like physics and chemistry, became significantly easier to grasp. Teachers observed that the immersive VR environment boosted engagement and minimized distractions, allowing even average students to understand concepts more quickly. As one teacher explained, “They almost feel and travel through the topic, getting too close, with a 360° view.”

According to headmaster K Ramesh, early results show that this method of learning could lead to at least a 30% improvement in student performance.

Currently, the labs offer over 1,100 syllabus-based educational modules with plans to develop more according to teachers’ needs. The modules cover a range of classes—from primary through higher secondary—ensuring wide access for learners. Each session accommodates up to 22 students, who are assessed via tablets, with instant feedback provided to both students and teachers.

Corporation Commissioner M Sivaguru Prabhakaran stated that, based on the encouraging feedback, the rollout of AR-VR labs will be expanded to additional schools, fostering student curiosity and deeper understanding through hands-on experiences