Bridging the gap: Implementing 360° virtual tours in research facilities – A pilot study

Abstract

This paper reports on a pilot study exploring the use of immersive 360-degree videos within higher education biological science research facilities. Despite their potential to enhance teaching and learning, the adoption of such technologies has been limited, with most existing studies focusing on undergraduate teaching laboratories thereby confining their use to introductory science education. Expanding their application to specialised equipment in advanced laboratories, such as university research facilities, offers opportunities to improve student career readiness and extend the pedagogical value of research infrastructure. To address this gap, a pilot 360-degree virtual tour of the Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry Facility at the University of Leeds was developed using the ThingLink learning platform. The pilot aimed to explore the challenges of creating such a resource and to collect student feedback through surveys and focus group discussions. This paper discusses the development process, key lessons learned, and insights gained from student responses, which will inform the refinement of the virtual resource to better support student learning and foster the development of work-ready graduates.