In June 2019 I wrote that virtual reality seemed to be largely a matter of a solution looking for a problem. However, I think I may have found a good application of the technology (in addition to the Microsoft Hololens). The reason for my uncertainty is that I am not a chemistry teacher and never have been, and the application I looked at during the Bett Show is about chemistry.

Using the MEL VR headset and software, I entered the molecule of a diamond, followed by that of a pencil. When I was school, I learnt how to draw a Bunsen burner in my chemistry lessons, which I have always thought to be a potentially very useful life skill — if you need a Bunsen burner drawn, I’m your man.

I also learnt, from looking at 3d models in the chemistry labs, that different objects have a different molecular structure. That’s what came across in the experience of using the MEL VR.

I can’t say I learnt much more than that, because it is all very much a closed book to me. However, what I did find was that using the VR headset, apart from making me feel nauseus, made the whole thing seem interesting. Now that is definitely a plus. If you can get someone who until now has had no interest in or aptitude for a subject hooked, you’re on to a winner.

Unfortunately, MEL Science does not appear to be listed on the Bett website, but I can tell you that they are on stand SG42. Also, they won a Bett Award in the Innovator of the Year category. If you teach Chemistry you should definitely take a look.