Using immersive technologies to enhance the student learning experience

• Published in: Interactive technology and smart education Vol. 21; no. 3; pp. 403 - 425
• Main Authors: Baxter, Gavin, Hainey, Thomas
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bingley Emerald Group Publishing Limited 24.07.2024
• Subjects: Course Content; COVID-19; Distance learning; Education; Educational Practices; Educational technology; Equipment costs; Experiential Learning; Learner Engagement; Learning; Learning Processes; Motion sickness; Motivation; Online instruction; Pedagogy; Questionnaires; Student Motivation; Student participation; Students; Teachers; Undergraduate Students; Undergraduate study; Virtual reality
• ISSN: 1741-5659; 1758-8510
• DOI: 10.1108/ITSE-05-2023-0078

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate undergraduate student perceptions about the application of immersive technologies for enhancing the student learning experience. This study assesses the viewpoints of students from varying multidisciplinary backgrounds about whether immersive technologies can enhance their learning experience and increase their level of engagement in the context of higher educational delivery.Design/methodology/approachThe research used a case study methodology adopting a questionnaire-based research mixed methods approach. In total, 83 participants completed the questionnaire. The purpose of the research was to evaluate and interpret students’ perspectives at higher educational level about the use of immersive technologies towards enhancing their learning experience. There was also a focus on remote educational delivery due to the legacy of COVID-19.FindingsThe findings suggest that there is still more empirical work to be undertaken regarding the application of immersive technologies in higher education. The study revealed that there are immersive benefits though preference for face-to-face teaching remains popular. The negative connotations associated with immersive technology use in higher education, (e.g. virtual reality), such as cost of equipment and motion sickness, substantiates the themes identified in the academic literature.Originality/valueThe study explores a diversity of immersive technologies and their application in higher education (HE) contexts. Findings indicate that although there are acknowledged pedagogical benefits of immersive technology use in HE prevalent barriers remain that require further empirical research if immersive technology use is to be universally used in the sector.