We believe it is important for many people to have a basic understanding of how to navigate virtual worlds using virtual avatars. The founding of the Berlin School of VR (Virtual Reality) is a logical step for us and gives a name to what we have been doing for several years—showing people how to use virtual reality headsets.
In recent years, we have been asked by various individuals and institutions to conduct courses on the use of virtual reality. For our work in VR, it is often necessary for artists to be familiar with working with headsets and VR content. Over the years, we have taught over 100 people how to use VR technology! We observe who is currently able to use this technology and who is not. We believe that people should receive basic training in how to use virtual reality. They should be familiar with the settings and options of the hardware and software so that they can use them safely.
We are a group of Berlin-based and international artists, researchers, and virtual reality producers who enjoy working in virtual worlds and are passionate about sharing their knowledge.
We are artists and practitioners, 95% of whom aren’t afraid to explain things. Katharina Haverich, founder of the Berlin School of VR, is a performance and media artist. She has years of experience leading seminars and workshops at universities and educational institutions. If you’d like to learn more about our team members, check out their bios on our website.
For our work, we spend a lot of time in virtual reality. Since 2017, we have been using various VR headsets, VR apps, and platforms. We closely follow developments in VR technology and content. At international conferences and in institutions, we present our work and ideas and learn about what people from all over the world are currently developing in the field of virtual reality.
The Berlin School of VR is a space that also serves as an art studio. We aim to be an accessible place for people taking their first steps into virtual worlds. We see ourselves as part of the Schillerkiez neighborhood and want to collaborate with local communities in Neukölln.
Our course program focuses on teaching the fundamental concepts and skills we believe are necessary to fully experience VR. We’re more like a place where you can take “driving lessons” for virtual worlds. Instead of a report card, however, we provide a certificate of participation.
1. “Virtual Reality Crash Course” (75 min)
2. Course: “Virtual World Hopping” (3 hours)
3. “Artistic Practice in the Metaverse” (16–32 hours)
4. “Youth Trips to the Metaverse” (20 hours)
Looking for a different course? Send an email to:
berlin@school-of-vr.org
The “Virtual Reality Crash Course” begins with a brief presentation on the concept of virtual reality, as well as some tips that will be important during the hands-on portion. Participants will then be given a VR headset, and we’ll show them how to use it. Finally, participants will navigate through various virtual worlds in the body of an avatar and get an overview of the different menus.
Most courses consist of about 20% theory and 80% practice.
At the moment, we teach in German and English.
We offer remote, hybrid, and in-person formats.
Yes, as long as they’re comfortable in their stroller, enjoy drawing, or playing at the playground across from the Berlin School of VR. However, if they’re under 13 years old, we can’t let them use a headset to try out virtual reality.
Yes, as long as they’re comfortable in their stroller, enjoy drawing, or playing at the playground across from the Berlin School of VR. However, if they’re under 13 years old, we can’t let them use a headset to try out virtual reality.
Yes, if he or she is calm and friendly.
Yes, for children ages 13 and up – see: “Youth Trips to the Metaverse”.
It uses plain language and is compatible with screen readers, and the text size will (soon) be adjustable. Accessibility is important to us.
No, you can't be drunk or high.
It uses plain language and is compatible with screen readers, and the text size will (soon) be adjustable. Accessibility is important to us.
We use Meta Quest II and III headsets, and will soon be using the Apple Vision Pro as well.
Designing and programming for virtual reality is a complex and wide-ranging field. But we’d be happy to put you in touch with professional virtual reality studios and developers.
Unfortunately, no. Please sign up for a course.