UNEVOC Connect

XR stands for extended reality and is an umbrella term for immersive technologies. The different technologies vary in their degree of immersion. Immersion describes “becoming completely involved in something” (Cambridge dictionary). In XR, immersion means that the user is not just an outside observer but a part of and participating in the (learning) experience. This offers the opportunity to acquire experience-based rather than theory-based knowledge.

eXtended reality (XR) technologies, which include virtual, augmented, immersive, and mixed reality are used in higher education instruction in various ways to enhance learning experiences. Examples of uses include, virtual labs, simulations and trainings, field trips and virtual tours, immersive learning, language learning, and accessibility accommodation to those with disabilities.

Extended reality (XR) is an umbrella term for the various technologies that enable us to enter immersive worlds. Encompassing a wide range of immersive technologies, XR connects all the human senses to fully engage the learner.

XR covers three different modalities:

• Virtual reality (VR) inserts learners inside a 360° simulated environment where they can practice skills, converse with avatars, and interact with realistic objects within an entirely safe, distraction-free, fully immersed setting.
• Augmented reality (AR) overlays the real-world environment with interactive digital elements to add detail and enhance the learning experience. At a very basic level, think Snapchat or Zoom filters, then extrapolate this concept to more sophisticated in-headset learning experiences where choices might appear over an instrument or a trip hazard might be hidden in a scene.
• Mixed reality (MR) blends the physical and digital worlds using both VR and AR, including hardware and graphics. Digital and real-world objects can interact with each other in real time, in a sort of “hybrid reality.”

As an overarching statement, XR places the learner in a fully or partially simulated, multi-sensory environment where they can learn in a way that’s interactive, engaging, and memorable. It’s a fully immersive, safe, scalable, and personalized experience for teaching all kinds of skills to a wide range of learners, from frontline workers in a retail environment to managers for whom soft skills like conflict resolution are invaluable.