Many institutions are experimenting with virtual reality (VR) to provide students with simulations that apply their theoretical learning to practice. We developed a VR experience, adapted from Joyner and Allen’s (2015) case study “Farming in Space? Developing a Sustainable Food Supply on Mars” and inspired by the film The Martian, in which students establish a base on Mars and grow crops to sustain life. Not only does the simulation teach students to think creatively about how to create a sustainable farming system in a hostile environment, it also teaches vital “soft” skills that all lab workers and scientists need, such as teamwork and communication.
