The potential of virtual and augmented reality to improve blended learning in general secondary education

  • Alisa Sukhikh Institute of Education Digitalization of the National Academy of Educational Sciences of Ukraine
Keywords: immersive technologies, blended learning, general secondary education institutions, educational innovations, virtual and augmented reality.

Abstract

Immersive technologies, such as virtual (VR) and augmented (AR) reality, have become one of the most important new tools in education. Their introduction into blended learning in general secondary education opens up significant opportunities for improving the quality of the educational process, but at the same time poses a number of challenges for teachers and schools. This article analyzes the impact of immersive technologies on the effectiveness of blended learning, in particular, assessing their impact on student motivation and interaction. The article discusses approaches to the use of virtual and augmented reality in blended learning, methods of integration into the educational process, and describes cases of using immersive technologies to increase the interactivity of the educational environment.

The research results show that immersive technologies contribute to deeper learning, increase student motivation, and create interactive educational environments where each student can freely interact with learning objects, regardless of the physical limitations of the real world. Virtual reality allows for the creation of training simulations that help students practice skills in a safe environment, while augmented reality enriches learning materials with visual elements that promote a better understanding of complex concepts. Particular attention is paid to the impact of these technologies on ensuring active interaction between students and teachers, which is one of the biggest challenges of blended learning.

At the same time, the article discusses the challenges that arise when introducing immersive technologies in secondary schools. These include the high cost of equipment, technical difficulties associated with setting up and operating VR and AR, and the need to train teachers in new methods of working with these technologies. In addition, the article emphasizes the importance of further research aimed at assessing the long-term impact of immersive technologies on learning outcomes, developing methods for adapting VR and AR to various educational programs, and studying the social and psychological aspects of using immersive environments in education.

In general, the article emphasizes the significant potential of immersive technologies in blended learning, while emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach for their successful implementation. Investments in equipment, training, and curriculum adaptation are critical to maximizing the effectiveness of these innovations in the educational process. The paper provides recommendations for the optimal use of VR and AR in educational practice to create a more engaging and effective learning environment that promotes both academic and personal development of students.

Published
2025-01-15