What is Virtual Excursion

Virtual Excursion is a teaching aid in the field of plant systematics, vegetation ecology and soil science. It is directed to students of five study courses. Virtual Excursion is an interactive DVD with corresponding contents supervisor, which is integrated into the curriculum at the ETH Zurich.

The DVD is based on panoramic images and short video squences of various locations in Switzerland. The content ranges from the level of a single plant or a soil profile to the overview over whole ecosystems.

This DVD allows students to virtually complete a field-trip. The students have the freedom to control progression and set the pace.

The integration of Virtual Excursion into the curriculum happens with the help of contents supervisors. They are available as written documents and contain course specific exercises to vegetation, soil and ecological context.

Virtual Excursion is not a substitute for real excursions. It shall be a tool for repetitions and preparations for exams. It serves as a completion to real excursions.