For the first time, virtual reality has been used in a non-research, public-school environment. Coles Elementary School and Phoenix High School in Chicago have used virtual reality to supplement their traditional learning. This innovative pilot program was born through a partnership between SUNRISE Virtual Reality, a Chicago-based virtual reality company and the New Functional Learning Institute in Chicago. The successful pilot project put the students "inside" their subject, giving students self-guided personal experiences with their studies. Now a number of Chicago school districts are exploring how to harness the massive potential of virtual reality, with uses ranging from virtual reality labs to supporting individual community college vocational programs. (T.H.E. Journal, Feb 99, p. 61-63)