Case Study: University of Southampton creates engaging virtual field trips with ThingLink

University of Southampton - Customer Case Study

The University of Southampton faced the challenge of preparing its Marine Biology students for a week-long coastal ecology field course. The previous method of using simple PDF maps and website links did not adequately familiarize students with the remote locations or prepare them for the practical and safety aspects of the trip. To create a more immersive and effective preparatory experience, the university turned to ThingLink, which it used to build a virtual field trip.

ThingLink provided the solution by enabling the creation of an interactive virtual tour composed of 360-degree images of the field sites and accommodations. Academic videos, student advice clips, and essential practical information were embedded directly into these environments. The resulting tour was integrated into the university's Blackboard LMS, successfully saving students' familiarization time during the actual trip, reducing potential anxiety, and enhancing their overall learning enjoyment. ThingLink's proof of concept was so effective that it is now being expanded to other departments within the university.

University of Southampton

Sarah Fielding

Team Manager