James Bay students learn Cree syllabics in virtual reality

The Quebec-based Cree School Board has launched the Cree Syllabics Virtual Reality project, which allows students from three James Bay communities to learn Cree syllabics in a virtual reality environment. By wearing a headset, students are able to enter and explore a virtual camp setting with a little girl named Niipiish and her dog Achimush. The learning tool was introduced this fall to Oujé-Bougoumou, Chisasibi, and Nemaska communities, and the school board hopes to expand the project to other Cree elementary schools in the future. “It excites me. I think the project can grow by adding more stories to the virtual reality,” said Lucy Shem, co-ordinator of Cree programs at the Cree School Board. “I know the children will enjoy and learn from it because children are already good with technology.” CBC | NationTalk