Virtual Reality and Collaborative Learning in Higher Education

Abstract

For the past forty years, research has revealed many ways in which Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) can be utilized to support and enhance education. Similarly, Virtual Reality (VR) technology has proven promising for different educational purposes. These affordances, however, tend to change when the technology behind them advances; as such, research should continue to examine the effects how these advances affect the pedagogy. With VR technology continuously expanding, its potential for Collaborative Learning (CL) requires further studying. This research project aims to better understand how different aspects of VR can be used to support key dimensions of successful CL. In doing so, the research project hopes to provide guidelines as to how these VR aspects can be implemented to facilitate and enhance collaboration between group members in an educational setting.