Immersive Learning Using Virtual Reality: Pedagogical Strategies for Building a Community of Inquiry

Jaya Kannan; Josef Trapani; Kara McGillicuddy

doi:10.20343/teachlearninqu.14.58

Authors

Jaya Kannan Amherst College
Josef G. Trapani Amherst College https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6898-649X
Kara T. McGillicuddy Amherst College https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9715-0966

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20343/teachlearninqu.14.58

Keywords:

immersive learning, virtual reality in higher education, community of inquiry, pedagogical strategies, digital accessibility

Abstract

This paper presents a case study of an immersive virtual reality (IVR) activity that the authors designed to enhance the learning experience in an undergraduate neurophysiology laboratory course. To investigate the effectiveness of this experimental approach, we analyzed student survey responses and learning outcomes from the IVR activity. We then used the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework as a pedagogical lens for analyzing the data. This analysis using CoI enabled the examination of cognitive, social, and teaching presences in an IVR activity. The results show that the IVR activity supported student engagement and promoted the emergence of a learning community. This study contributes empirical evidence, offers a pedagogical reflection on the potential of IVR in laboratory teaching, and concludes with recommendations for classroom integration.

Author Biographies

Jaya Kannan, Amherst College

Jaya Kannan (United States) is director of technology for curriculum and research at Amherst College. She partners with faculty to advance effective teaching and learning using emerging technologies. Her digital pedagogy research explores strategies for promoting learner autonomy and learning communities.
Josef G. Trapani , Amherst College

Josef G. Trapani (United States) is a professor of biology in the biology department and neuroscience program at Amherst College. His research focuses on understanding sensory encoding using the zebrafish model system.
Kara T. McGillicuddy, Amherst College

Kara T. McGillicuddy (United States) is a senior academic technology specialist at Amherst College. She is the primary administrator for the college’s learning management system and provides support for other academic technologies. Her research examines the intersection of communication, pedagogy, and technology.

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