LSUS leveraging VirtualSpeech for VR Training in Public Speaking
Discover how Louisiana State University Shreveport are leveraging VirtualSpeech for VR training in public speaking and other communication skills.
Highlights
Skills
Essential Public Speaking
87%
find VirtualSpeech valuable for public speaking
84%
of students were more confident after 3-4 speeches
27700
minutes spent in the VR app
Customer Introduction
Founded in 1967, Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS) is committed to educating a diverse population through nationally accredited undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. It emphasizes regional and global collaboration, intellectual discovery, and research innovation.
The Goal
LSUS aimed to address student anxiety and lack of motivation in its public speaking course by finding an engaging, technology-driven solution to improve confidence, preparation, and overall experience.
Instructor of Communication at LSU
Dr. Trey Gibson,
"I have been teaching public speaking for nearly 25 years and likely doing so the same way as those who taught many years before me. Taking advantage of 21st Century technology through the use of VirtualSpeech has made me completely shift how I’ve been teaching the course. I truly believe it is a difference maker for our students."
The Solution
LSUS integrated VirtualSpeech's Essential Public Speaking VR training course using Meta Quest 2 headsets. The program provided immersive environments and analytical feedback, such as eye contact and speaking rates. Students practiced speeches in VR before live presentations. Participation was voluntary, and data was gathered through surveys to measure impact.
Results and Benefits
- Increased Usage and Positive Perception: 64% of students practiced with VR for most speeches, showing higher scores in understanding public speaking and engagement compared to low users.
- Educational Benefits: High VR users reported significantly higher agreement on VR's value in preparation and understanding of faults.
- Learner Engagement: High VR users found the course more exciting and engaging.
- Reduced Performance Anxiety: Though anxiety persisted, high users felt better prepared for live speeches.
- Correlations: Feeling better about speeches was strongly linked to increased course engagement and understanding of public speaking concepts.
