Project SIGLA: Development and Evaluation of a Google Cardboard Laboratory Application in Science Using Virtual Reality for Android

Virtual reality (VR) has a great potential when integrated into education especially in the science curriculum. Scientific literacy is important in today’s society.However, the lack of facilities and resources in schools may hinder the mastery of competencies and skills. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a Google Cardboard laboratory application in science using virtual reality for Android. The Virtual Reality Education Model (VEM) was used in designing and developing the virtual laboratory application, the researcher called this Project SIGLA. A VR lab kit called Labn’aBox was prepared. Experts evaluated the material and results revealed that it conforms to quality in terms of objectives, content, format and language, presentation and usability. As implementers of the curriculum, teachers’ perspectives must be taken into consideration in introducing this technology in the classroom. Seven (7) senior high school science teachers participated in the implementation and evaluation phase of the study. Based on the results of the evaluation survey, participants found the material very satisfactory based on content, instructional and technical quality. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was conducted to further analyze their responses. Concerns and barriers in using virtual reality in the classroom were raised by the participants. Participants’ responses also revealed that virtual reality is highly engaging and suitable to serve as a supplementary learning material for doing laboratory activities in science. The result of this study shows a favorable response towards accepting the use of VR technology and how it can be integrated into the science curriculum.