This critical making project is meant to be a means to engage youth with national forests if they are not able to get to them by themselves. Not meant to replace a field trip, but to be used in the event that a field trip is too expensive, this means of sensory immersion hopes to inspire young individuals to make efforts in the arena of environmental conservation.

Supplies

Google Cardboard VR - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07G6YMC63/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s03?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Redwood Essential Oil - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075G334B1/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Tea Strainers - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014KJ5WLI/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Bluetooth Earbuds - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08SBMGJ97/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Pine Needle Tea (Loose) - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09F558YL2/ref=ppx_od_dt_b_asin_title_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Redwood Cones - https://www.etsy.com/listing/856065318/50-california-natural-sequoia-redwood?gpla=1&gao=1&&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping_us_-craft_supplies_and_tools&utm_custom1=_k_Cj0KCQiA47GNBhDrARIsAKfZ2rAKTrPnCKNbyePugoaRKa0PEh-8C_OeRIzfmx0v-Vvjzr_U9Hli--YaAoPlEALw_wcB_k_&utm_content=go_12665398257_121762925993_511610210343_aud-1184785539778:pla-295462056867_c__856065318_403481260&utm_custom2=12665398257&gclid=Cj0KCQiA47GNBhDrARIsAKfZ2rAKTrPnCKNbyePugoaRKa0PEh-8C_OeRIzfmx0v-Vvjzr_U9Hli--YaAoPlEALw_wcB

Glue - Hot, Super, or other

Water - to boil

Smartphone capable of VR movement

Step 1: Assemble VR Unit

Unbox and assemble Cardboard VR unit based on steps provided (on the box).

Step 2: OPTIONAL - Head Straps

OPTIONAL - NOT SUGGESTED - Add strap to VR unit. This is not suggested as it can remove the element of touch when using the unit.

Step 3: Cut Cardboard Strips

Cut strips of cardboard from the box that was included with the unit (about 1 inch wide).

Step 4: Fold & Glue Strips

Fold the strips into a "L" shape about 1 inch from the edges. Glue the 2 strips together at the same length of the VR unit.

Step 5: Attach "Scent Bar"

Attach the bar to the sides of the unit. Allow for about 1 inch of distance from the bottom of the unit to the top surface of the bar.

Step 6: Scent Redwood Cones

Add 1 drop of the essential oil to the pinecones. If the essential oil smells strongly, consider watering it down before adding as to not induce nausea.

Step 7: Add Redwood Cones

Attach Redwood cones to the scent bar with glue, hot glue, or super-glue.

Step 8: Add More Cones

Affix more (unscented) cones to the sides of the unit. I used the stems of the cones as well to add some extra texture. Make sure these are positioned near where the palm would rest on the side of the unit.

Step 9: Add Cones or Sticks

Affix cones or sticks to the front of the unit where the tips of the fingers would rest when holding the unit.

Step 10: Fill Tea Strainers With Pine Needles

Fill both tea strainers with pines. Try to fit as many pines into the strainers as possible. Close strainers.

Step 11: Steep Tea

Steep the needles in water until it is boiling. Remove from heat once boiling. Leave for an additional 5-10 minutes after removing from heat.

Step 12: Pour Tea

Let tea rest off heat for additional 5 minutes until warm.

Step 13:

Enjoy the experience! Use the unit with VR videos uploaded to YouTube or upload your own images to http://www.mxrealitylab.com/panoform/. Unit is intended to be used with a smartphone. If using Panoform, make sure to find a soundscape from the national park to pair with it in the headphones. Drink the tea prior to using the unit and remember to use the headphones!

Introduction: National Forest VR Box