UPDATE: A groundbreaking virtual reality tool, 360 On-Country, has just launched, enabling Indigenous Australians to connect with their ancestral lands from anywhere. Developed collaboratively with local Indigenous experts, this innovative platform addresses urgent educational gaps, especially for Elders who cannot physically access their Country.
Students and Elders alike are finding immense value in this technology. One student remarked, “It makes me feel like I am right there on Country,” highlighting the tool’s powerful impact on learning Indigenous knowledge systems and culture. The tool aims to overcome barriers faced by many, including those due to disability or geographic constraints.
The initiative stemmed from the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person learning was severely limited. During this period, Shandell Cummings, a Menang woman from Kinjarling (Albany), Western Australia, collaborated with Len Collard to adapt educational content for online delivery. Recognizing the need for immersive learning experiences, they secured funding to develop the VR tool, which brings the essence of Country into classrooms and homes.
The VR experience, filmed at significant cultural sites including Quaranup (Point Possession), allows users to engage with the environment and learn about Indigenous traditions in an unprecedented way. As students don the VR headsets, they report feeling a strong connection to the land, emphasizing the importance of place in Indigenous cultural identity.
Furthermore, this technology holds promise for addressing the challenges faced by Indigenous Elders, who often express a profound longing to return to their Country—especially in their final days. A recent 2023 study found that the most crucial unmet need among older Indigenous people in urban settings is the opportunity to connect with their ancestral lands. The 360 On-Country tool can help bridge this gap, providing a respectful and immersive means for Elders to engage with their culture remotely.
Despite the initial discomfort some students experienced when removing the VR headsets, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many shared that the VR experience fostered a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships between people, culture, and the environment. The visuals and sounds used in the tool create a rich tapestry of connection, making this innovative approach an invaluable resource for learning.
As the tool gains traction, educators and community leaders are encouraged to explore its applications further. The potential for cultural therapy in aged care settings is particularly promising, as it could help Elders reminisce and connect with their roots in ways that traditional methods cannot.
What’s Next: As interest grows, additional funding and partnerships may be sought to expand the reach of 360 On-Country, potentially enhancing the lives of countless Indigenous Australians. This tool not only represents a significant step forward for education but also an important development in preserving and sharing Indigenous culture.
This urgent update highlights a transformative approach to Indigenous education and cultural connection, ensuring that the wisdom of the land continues to be shared across generations. Share this news to spread awareness of this critical initiative!
