Virtual reality evolution in Latin American higher education: a systematic review of trends, benefits, and challenges in the last decade

Abstract

The objective of this systematic review is to examine the implementation of virtual reality (VR) in Latin American higher education between 2013 and 2023. The PRISMA 2020 guidelines were followed to analyze 24 studies from four databases (Scopus, ProQuest, Dialnet, and LA Referencia). The results reveal an evolution in three phases: latency (2013–2017), initial growth (2018–2020), and acceleration (2021–2023). The main applications include medicine and health sciences for clinical simulations, engineering for three-dimensional visualization, social sciences for historical reconstructions, and pedagogy for teacher training. Reported benefits include significant improvements in the understanding of complex concepts, increased student motivation, development of practical skills, and greater knowledge retention. The main barriers identified are insufficient technological infrastructure, high implementation costs, lack of teacher training, and institutional resistance to change. In conclusion, VR shows transformative potential for Latin American university education, requiring inclusive strategies and structural investment to achieve equitable and sustainable implementation across the region.