Using VR for Collaborative Learning

Abstract

Although virtual reality (VR) has been technologically possible for decades, both logistical and pedagogical limitations have slowed progress relating to collaborating with others in virtual reality environments. This article establishes a working framework, namely embodied social translucence, to illustrate VR-based collaborative learning through the theories of social translucence and embodied cognition. To help contextualize VR tools' abilities to facilitate collaborative learning, the authors analyze collaborative virtual reality studies and evaluate three current virtual reality platforms in terms of collaborative potential. They also provide recommended best practices for facilitating and designing collaborative virtual reality learning experiences.