Case Study: University of Alberta enriches health science learning with Google for Education and Google Cardboard

University of Alberta deploys VR app & Google Cardboard to enrich health science learning

The University of Alberta needed a better way to teach technologically savvy health sciences students complex topics like anatomy and molecular biology, which were difficult to grasp through textbooks and two-dimensional illustrations. Working with Google for Education, the university explored virtual reality and augmented reality through its Cognitive Projections initiative, using Google Cardboard as an affordable way to deliver immersive learning experiences on students’ existing smartphones.

Google for Education helped the University of Alberta deploy the Cell 101 VR app with Google Cardboard to make cellular anatomy and physiology more engaging and easier to understand. The result was strong student adoption and positive feedback: 100% of surveyed students said they enjoyed using the app, most reported it helped them understand key concepts, and many shared it outside class. The experience also increased engagement in lectures, reduced student questions, and supported the university’s plans for more VR and AR learning tools.

University of Alberta

Paul LaPointe

Associate Professor in the Department of Cell Biology