Bangor Fund supports accessible fieldwork through immersive virtual tours

The School of Environmental and Natural Sciences has significantly expanded its work to make field-based learning more accessible and inclusive for all students, supported by alumni donations through the Bangor Fund.

Led by Dr Richard Dallison, Lecturer in Environmental Science, the project enabled four student interns to create immersive virtual field experiences using 360° photography, interactive tour software and virtual reality technologies. Over four months, the team digitised 14 field visits across nine teaching modules, creating resources that support learning from first-year undergraduate courses through to Master's programmes.

Dr Dallison commented: 

The support of the Bangor Fund has been instrumental in expanding the reach of the School’s virtual field trip provision. This has helped us widen participation in fieldwork, enabling students who may face barriers such as disability, financial constraints, short-term illness or international travel constraints to remain connected to field-based learning, a vital part of their degrees. The project has also given the four interns the opportunity to develop new skills outside their degree programmes, providing valuable experience and enhancing their transferable skills and employability. Thanks to all the alumni who generously support the Bangor Fund for helping us create more accessible fieldwork opportunities for our students.

The virtual tours provide an alternative way for students to engage with field-based learning when attendance is not possible, while also allowing those who participate in person to revisit locations and learning materials. Expected to benefit hundreds of students each year, the resources will help embed inclusive fieldwork practices across the curriculum while enhancing learning and engagement.

Leon Jamieson, undergraduate Geography student, said: 

Thanks to the alumni support for making this opportunity possible. Creating teaching resources is one of the most valuable skills I've gained from this project and has strengthened my understanding of accessible teaching for a diverse range of learners. I've also enjoyed collaborating with students and staff, learning new software, and helping to create a more inclusive learning environment.

Jacob Watson, MSc by Research student in Environmental Sciences, added: 

This project deepened my understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion and showed me that accessibility is not a single fix. Effective inclusive design requires considering and balancing a range of different needs.

The Bangor Fund is administered by the Development and Alumni Relations Office and supports initiatives that enhance the student experience.