Higher education is increasingly focused on preparing students for the evolving workforce. As O’Neill and Short (2023) highlighted, institutions have a moral responsibility to enhance student employability, as learners invest significant resources expecting career success. Experiential learning has emerged as a powerful approach to meet this demand, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application by offering students tangible, hands-on experiences in the field (Gavillet, 2018, p. 143).

Virtual reality (VR) is a key tool in this transformation, offering immersive, hands-on experiences that allow students to practice real-world scenarios safely. From simulating surgeries to exploring complex engineering projects, VR enhances skills, knowledge, and confidence through personalized and adaptable learning environments (Vats & Joshi, 2024). It also supports diverse learning needs, including accessibility for individuals with disabilities, ensuring equal opportunities for success (Know the ADA, n.d.).

By integrating VR into curricula, higher education can provide students with engaging, practical experiences that better prepare them for workplace challenges, while fostering innovation and inclusivity.

Source: Lawson, L. (n.d.). Visual Representation of VR in Higher Education. Canva. Link here.

Sources:

Gavillet, R. (2018). Experiential learning and its impact on college students. Texas Education Review, 7(1), 140–149. https://doi.org/10.26153/tsw/21

Know the ADA. (n.d.). The role of virtual reality in creating accessible experiences. Retrieved November 18, 2024, from https://know-the-ada.com/the-role-of-virtual-reality-in-creating-accessible-experiences/

O’Neill, G., & Short, A. (2023). Relevant, practical and connected to the real world: What higher education students say engages them in the curriculum. Irish Educational Studies, 1(1–18). https://doi.org/10.1080/03323315.2023.2221663

Vats, S., & Joshi, R. (2024). The impact of virtual reality in education: A comprehensive research study. In S. K. Sharma, Y. K. Dwivedi, B. Metri, B. Lal, & A. Elbanna (Eds.), Transfer, diffusion and adoption of next-generation digital technologies. TDIT 2023 (Vol. 699). Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-50204-0_11

Thank you for joining me today! Let’s keep learning altogether, as lifelong #LearningMatters.

Best,
Laura Lawson
LearningMatters, LLC
Instructional Designer

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