VR4TEAMS
Using Virtual Reality to Build Skills for Inclusive Educational & Work Spaces
Developed by a cross-disciplinary team of Ivey researchers, led by Dr. Shannon Rawski, the VR4TEAMS: Using Virtual Reality to Build Skills for Inclusive Educational and Work Spaces project leverages emerging technology to tackle Equity, Diversity and Inclusion challenges in educational and workplace settings. The VR simulation is designed to build practical skills for identifying and effectively intervening in common instances of bias, including those related to gender, race, social class, disability and neurodiversity.
The learning technology combines immersive VR scenarios with structured reflection and group discussion to deepen understanding of diverse perspectives and cultivate empathy. Participants engage directly with complex EDI issues through the eyes of six fictional co-workers/team members collaborating on a group project, encountering and reflecting on real-world interpersonal dynamics in a meaningful and impactful way.
VR4Teams was funded through the Ivey Critical Issues Fund, the Teaching Technology Innovation Committee at the Ivey Business School, and the John F. Wood Centre for Innovation in Business Education. It was co-created by a cross-disciplinary team of Ivey professors, Shannon Rawski (Organizational Behaviour, Project Lead), Tiffany Bayley (Management Science), Barnini Bhattacharyya (Organizational Behaviour), Joshua Foster (Business Economics & Public Policy), Erin Huner, PhD ’21 (Western), Director, Culture, Inclusion, Student Support & Engagement, Zoe Kinias (Organizational Behaviour & Sustainability, John F. Wood Chair for Innovation In Business Education), Karen MacMillan (Organizational Behaviour), Lucas Monzani (Organizational Behaviour, Troost Professor in Leadership).
The VR4Teams simulation has been piloted in multiple Ivey Business School classrooms, where students not only engaged in case discussions but stepped into the perspective of team members through immersive VR. This experience allows learners to hear inner monologues, observe group dynamics firsthand and develop empathy while practicing leadership in action.
Read the Ivey Impact articles on this VR teaching technology VR meets business education & Cases brought to life.
EMILY HUR
Pilot Study ParticipantMy experience with the VR simulation was both enjoyable and thought-provoking, especially hearing the experiences and insights shared during the group discussion. This simulation helped me realize how limited our understanding of others can be when solely based on external observations. It highlighted the importance of recognizing that everyone has their own internal thoughts and struggles that are not always visible, and that we should practice patience and empathy in our interactions with others.