Background

A VFT combines base 360° media with tags that include additional information to interpret the space. However, the way that those two elements are combined can impact how effectively key ideas can be conveyed. To make an engaging and effective VFT, consider the following four design tips:

• Set the scene. Tell your audience what your VFT is about and where it takes place.
• Guide your visitors. Decide how you want people to explore. Use words, icons, or tag settings to guide them.
• Place tags with purpose. Put a tag where it makes the most sense in the scene — on or near the object it is about. Bonus: Pick an icon that matches the tag topic!
• Mix in multimedia. Use photos, audio, videos, GIFs, charts, 3D models, graphs, maps, and more to make the big ideas in your VFT come alive!

To-Do

1. Make a copy of the VFT Design Principles Handout.
2. Explore the VFT Design Principles Virtual Field Trip Activity to experience firsthand just how much the design of a VFT can impact efficacy.

Note: students engage in this same activity when they complete lesson 1 of the VFT creation sequence.