TOWN OF WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – Jefferson-Lewis BOCES is using virtual reality to teach its criminal justice students real-world lessons.
Wearing a virtual headset, General Brown High School student Genoa Wood is one of nearly 60 students learning law enforcement in a new way.
“It’s definitely realistic and prepares you for the real world. When you go into the academy, not a lot of people can say that they’ve done this,” said Wood.
Juniors and seniors from Jefferson and Lewis counties are now able to get first-hand, real-world experience without leaving the classroom.
“You can challenge the students in a stressful situation, but in a very controlled environment. That gives them the coping mechanisms to be able to use verbal judo and de-escalate situations,” said Todd Gorman, criminal justice instructor, Jefferson-Lewis BOCES.
“When I approach a situation, I already know how to handle it the right way, the correct way. It really helps out the muscle memory of it, and the accuracy of doing it over and over,” said Sophia Shoen, a senior from Indian River High School.
Along with firearms training, students can learn how to deal with a variety of real-world situations, like de-escalating domestic disputes or even hostage situations.
“It’s so much more realistic and it’s way more immersive into being in a realistic situation. For this you are holding a tazer, you’re holding a gun, and you have the sound completely immersed into that world,” said Daniel Rushlow, a senior from Alexandria Central High School.
Instructors say the training students are learning virtually is showing in other aspects of their education as well.
“They’re more confident. They get done with that, they run a scenario correct, they de-escalate it, and you can just see the pride in their face. They’re like, I did that, I took care of the situation; everybody was safe, and that’s the outcome we’re looking for,” said Gorman.
Those looking to get a first-hand experience for themselves of what the virtual reality set is like can check out the BOCES open house on Wednesday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
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