See How Keele University Created Virtual Campus Visits with ThingLink

Kyla Ball May 1, 2020

We recently shared with you a blog post detailing ways colleges and universities are creating virtual campus tours and field trips. We wished to dive into this topic a little further and share with you how you can begin to recreate these yourself (and be a little bit playful with our format!) In this ThingLink blog, hear directly from Luke Hobson and how he creatively moved in-person campus tours online with ThingLink.

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Keele University

The University of Keele is a public research university in Keele, Staffordshire, England. In 2020 the University needed to enable both current students and prospective students to visit virtually for education transition from high school and course delivery. This was an essential project for the University led by Luke Hobson, Technician.

EXPLORE THE SCHOOL OF GEOGRAPHY, GEOLOGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT INTERACTIVE AND SELF-GUIDED VIRTUAL TOUR

How the virtual campus tour was created

Using ThingLink, Luke created the informative interactive campus map of the School of Geography, Geology, and Environment campus – with audio introductions bringing a personal touch. The map uses an aerial photo of Keele’s beautiful campus that connects to multiple points of information, as well as 360-degree videos from different parts of the campus area. Also, included in the map are example reports from international field trips.

Further great examples of virtual field trips using ThingLink

Watch our video to see how it was done

Watch our interview below with Luke and the follow up “how to” to inspire your own ThingLink virtual tours, trips and maps

Why are virtual tours so important for universities, colleges and schools?

Virtual tours have become an indispensable tool for universities and colleges. As institutions aim to provide more comprehensive information sessions, the virtual experience allows them to showcase everything from academic programs, athletics facilities, and the overall campus ambiance – without geographical limitations. This approach not only enhances undergraduate admissions processes by providing a firsthand view of the institution from the comfort of your home but also boosts enrollment by reaching a wider audience. Instead of waiting for the traditional open house or group tour dates, prospective students can embark on a virtual walking tour at their convenience, ensuring they can take the tour at a date and time that suits them.

Further examples of virtual campus tours

For a truly authentic taste of student life on campus, why not use current students as your virtual tour guides? This is shown to great effect in the example below where one of the student ambassadors introduces all the spaces and places at his medical school on a virtual visit.