On August 7, 2024, Montclair State University announced a groundbreaking initiative to incorporate character education into its core curriculum using virtual reality technology. This project, titled “Planting the SEEDS of Character Growth,” aims to develop a character education course that will engage students in ethical inquiry and promote civic and community responsibility. With the support of a three-year, $1 million grant from the Educating Character Initiative (ECI) at Wake Forest University, Montclair is set to lead the way in offering innovative and character-focused coursework to its undergraduate population.
The Institutional Impact Grant awarded to Montclair is part of the ECI’s mission to develop the moral, civic, and intellectual character of faculty, staff, and students at colleges and universities. Montclair is one of 29 institutions selected to receive this grant in 2024, highlighting its commitment to integrating character education into its academic programs. The university has also matched the grant with an additional $888K in funding, demonstrating its dedication to fostering character development among its students.
Led by principal investigator Jennifer Urban, Professor of Family Science and Human Development, the “Planting the SEEDS of Character Growth” project will focus on creating a four-module character education course that incorporates virtual reality experiences. These modules will explore character virtues in various topics such as neurodiversity or aging, providing students with immersive and engaging learning opportunities. Additionally, the project will develop a teaching manual that can be shared with future course instructors, ensuring the sustainability and scalability of the program.
The use of virtual reality in character education is a novel approach that has the potential to revolutionize the way students engage with ethical reasoning and community engagement. By allowing students to experience different perspectives and reflect on their experiences through guided coursework, virtual reality technology can enhance the learning process and promote empathy and understanding among students. This innovative application of technology aligns with Montclair’s commitment to providing transformative student experiences and preparing students to address complex societal challenges.
The “Planting the SEEDS of Character Growth” project is part of Montclair’s broader efforts to integrate character education into its new SEEDS core curriculum. The SEEDS curriculum emphasizes values such as social justice, equity, diversity, and self-discovery, aiming to educate students who are not only prepared for the workforce but also equipped to contribute to the public good. By incorporating character-focused coursework into its core curriculum, Montclair is empowering students to become ethical and empathetic citizens who are capable of addressing the pressing issues facing society.
In conclusion, Montclair State University’s initiative to develop a character education course using virtual reality technology represents a significant step towards fostering character growth and ethical inquiry among its students. Through the support of the ECI grant and the dedication of faculty and staff, Montclair is poised to lead the way in offering innovative and transformative educational experiences that prepare students to make a positive impact on the world. This project exemplifies Montclair’s commitment to character education and its mission to educate students who will contribute to civil society and tackle society’s biggest challenges.
