VR and AR Tools for Your Classroom
From virtual field trips to augmented reality science labs, immersive technology is reshaping classrooms and after-school programs across the country. Teachers no longer need expensive headsets or complex software to bring learning to life—today’s free and low-cost platforms make AR and VR accessible to every educator. In this post, we’ve rounded up the best immersive technology tools and experiences that support creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Whether you’re exploring 3D design, coding, or virtual reality for the first time, these resources—including BrainSTEM Metaversity—will help you launch meaningful, tech-powered lessons that inspire students to see the world differently.
BrainSTEM Metaversity
A learn-to-earn platform by BrainSTEM University where students explore STEM, AI, AR, and VR experiences through interactive quests.
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Offers VR/AR-based learning modules and teacher progress tracking.
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Free or low-cost access for partner schools and nonprofit programs.
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Ideal for: After-school programs, STEM camps, digital literacy units.
Virtual Reality (VR) Platforms & Apps
1. Wander
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Type: Google Street View in VR
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Use: Explore the world in immersive 360°; great for geography, history, and cultural studies.
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Cost: ~$9.99 one-time
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Access: Meta Quest Store
2. Mission: ISS
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Type: Free VR simulation
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Use: Experience life aboard the International Space Station.
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Cost: Free
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Access: Meta Quest Store
3. Anne Frank House VR
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Type: Historical VR experience
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Use: Virtual tour of Anne Frank’s secret annex; powerful social studies tie-in.
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Cost: Free
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Access: Meta Quest Store
4. Titans of Space 2.0
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Type: VR astronomy exploration
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Use: Take a guided tour through the solar system and beyond.
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Cost: ~$9.99
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Access: Meta Quest Store
5. YouTube VR
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Type: 360° video platform
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Use: Access thousands of educational VR experiences for free.
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Cost: Free
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Access: Meta Quest Store or browser
Augmented Reality (AR) Apps
1. Merge EDU
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Type: AR + 3D learning system with digital “Merge Cubes”
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Use: Explore 3D science objects like cells, fossils, and planets.
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Cost: Free version available; premium school plans offered
2. QuiverVision
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Type: AR coloring and learning app
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Use: Students color pages, then bring them to life in 3D.
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Cost: Free basic app; premium packs optional
Web-Based Immersive Experiences
1. Google Arts & Culture
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Type: 360° tours and museum explorations
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Use: Visit global landmarks, art museums, and historical exhibits in 3D.
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Cost: Free
2. CoSpaces Edu
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Type: Create your own 3D worlds, stories, and VR simulations
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Use: Students build interactive scenes and code them with block or text-based coding.
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Cost: Free plan with upgrades available
Conclusion
Immersive technology is transforming the way students learn—bringing science, history, and creativity to life through hands-on exploration and virtual experiences. Whether you’re introducing virtual reality in the classroom, adding an augmented reality twist to a lesson, or guiding students through digital 3D spaces, there are more free and affordable tools available than ever before.
At BrainSTEM EdTech, we believe access to immersive learning shouldn’t be limited by cost or complexity. This curated list of free and low-cost immersive technology apps, websites, and experiences—including our very own BrainSTEM Metaversity—is designed to help teachers spark curiosity, boost engagement, and create meaningful, future-ready learning environments.