The rapid evolution of technology and its integration into education has opened doors for innovative approaches to teaching and learning. The Virtual Access to STEM Careers (VASC) project aims to harness the potential of virtual reality (VR) to provide students in grades 2-5 with immersive experiences related to STEM careers. This paper presents the development and consolidation of a comprehensive web application that amalgamates various facets of the VASC project, including grant research, application processes, pedagogical resources for educators, and developmental code for software engineers. The primary objective of this endeavor is to offer a centralized platform that facilitates the seamless implementation of the VASC program in educational settings and provides a tool to help obtain further funding. Furthermore, this study delves into the usability of the web application, ensuring its design and functionality align with the needs of its diverse user base, from educators to developers. Preliminary findings suggest that early exposure to STEM careers through VR, when combined with structured classroom instruction, can significantly enhance students’ perceptions and aspirations towards STEM fields. The VASC web application, with its comprehensive approach, stands as a promising tool to bridge the gap between traditional education and the dynamic world of STEM, fostering the next generation of innovators and scientists.

Recommended Citation: Hollock D., Ebrahimi E., Cummings J., Pence T., (2024). Virtual Access to Stem Careers (VASC): A Comprehensive Web Application. UNCW MS CSIS Proceedings. V. 18 , N. 8 .