Virtual reality as a learning tool: How and where to start with immersive teaching

Abstract

Innovations in the field of educational technology are very prominent. The application of immersive virtual reality (VR) in teaching and learning is currently in the focus of interest of researchers dealing with education. Numerous studies indicated that there are significant potential benefits of using this technology to improve learning outcomes and students’ motivation, overcome school-based and test anxiety, influence empathy, and ensure students focus on teaching content. However, there is still an issue of economic justification of investment in head-mounted displays (HMDs) and VR software for school use. Additionally, the key questions that arise from using VR in the classroom are on what theoretical basis to build immersive teaching and how to choose relevant content. The purpose of this chapter is to present a literature review of VR applications in education (with emphasis on both technological and pedagogical aspects, integration, and evaluation criteria), as well as to show the results of a small qualitative study conducted with teachers and an educational media specialist (all familiar with using VR as a teaching tool) in the Republic of Serbia.