30 January 2025

CAS Interactive 3D meeting: Flock XR

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Computing at School

If you were unable to join us for the 'Interactive 3D with Flock XR' thematic community meeting, don't worry! You can catch up on all the key discussions and resources from the session below.

Exploring Interactive 3D with Flock XR

Key Takeaways

Flock XR bridges the gap between block-based coding in Scratch and professional 3D tools like Unity and Unreal Engine.
Designed for accessibility, it runs on a wide range of devices, including Chromebooks and mobile phones.
Hands-on engagement—teachers and students can create interactive 3D environments, animations, and even 3D print models.
STEM pipeline focus—encouraging girls to continue with computing beyond KS3.
Curriculum resources in development, with a focus on Year 7 and seeking teacher feedback for future content.

Bridging the Gap Between Scratch and Industry Tools

Flock XR, created by Flip Computing, is a new block-based 3D programming tool designed to make interactive 3D development more accessible to young learners. Aimed at students aged 9-14 (though also engaging older users), it fills the gap between introductory platforms like Scratch and more advanced professional tools such as Unity and Unreal Engine.

The session began with an overview of why Flock XR was developed. The presenters highlighted a key challenge in computing education: students often outgrow block-based coding platforms but find industry-standard tools too complex. Flock XR aims to bridge this gap by offering an intuitive, visual way to code in 3D, making it easier for learners to explore extended reality (XR) concepts while still using a familiar block-based approach.

Engaging Features and Classroom Applications

Accessibility and Ease of Use

One of Flock XR’s standout features is its accessibility. Unlike many 3D development tools, it runs on a wide range of devices, including low-spec school laptops and even mobile phones. After the initial download, it can be used offline—perfect for schools with limited internet access. Importantly for teachers, there is no need for student accounts, simplifying classroom use and reducing administrative burden.

Interactive 3D Creation

Teachers were given a live demonstration of Flock XR’s capabilities. The tool allows users to:

Create and manipulate 3D objects using a simple drag-and-drop interface.
Customise materials and colours for objects, applying industry-relevant skills in 3D design.
Control animations and interactive behaviours, similar to Scratch but with enhanced features like character animations and real-time environmental interactions.
Integrate with micro:bit, extending learning into physical computing.

Real-World Relevance

The discussion touched on how interactive 3D environments are becoming increasingly important across industries. Whether in game development, architecture, healthcare, or data visualisation, Flock XR introduces students to skills that could be useful in future careers. The tool’s ability to incorporate 3D printing, augmented reality, and interactive design makes it particularly appealing for cross-curricular projects.

Next Steps: Applying Flock XR in Your Teaching

To explore how Flock XR might fit into your computing lessons, consider the following questions:

How do you currently introduce 3D concepts to students? Could Flock XR provide an engaging alternative?
Would a block-based 3D tool help bridge the transition from Scratch to text-based programming in your classroom?
Could interactive 3D projects enhance cross-curricular links, such as in STEM subjects or digital storytelling?

Try these quick classroom activities:

Modify a 3D Room: Use the ‘Ruminator’ demo to change wall colours, add objects, and personalise a virtual space.
Animate a Character: Program simple character movements and interactive behaviours.
Integrate with Micro:bit: Create a simple input-output interaction, such as a waving character controlled by a micro:bit gesture.