Inclusive use of XR

Main ideas

• XR (Extended Reality) is transforming vocational education and training (VET) by providing engaging and accessible learning opportunities in immersive environments. XR technologies, such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR), enable students to interact with simulated environments, improving engagement and skill acquisition.
• Inclusive XR ensures that learning environments are equitable and accessible to students from diverse backgrounds and abilities. This includes attention to accessibility, equitable representation and data privacy. Providing personalized and adaptive experiences is key to inclusive education.
• Practical examples demonstrate the potential of inclusive XR in providing training across VET sectors. UbiSim, a VR nursing training platform, promotes inclusivity by introducing diverse patients and addressing health disparities. VITA uses VR to help young adults with autism prepare for job interviews, reducing anxiety and increasing confidence.
• VET educators can integrate inclusive XR into their daily practice by starting small, customizing content for accessibility, promoting collaboration, and seeking regular feedback. Adapting existing training materials and using XR tools that support group activities are key strategies. Examples of inclusive XR applications in aesthetics training highlight practical benefits, such as realistic practice, personalized feedback, and safe

Aims

This unit will equip learners with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to design, implement, and evaluate XR-enhanced learning experiences ensuring inclusivity for all learners.

Learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of ethical frameworks, guidelines, and best practices for creating XR-enhanced learning experiences that emphasize inclusion.

Learners will acquire practical skills in designing XR experiences that prioritize accessibility and usability, ensuring inclusivity for learners with disabilities, language barriers, and cultural differences.

By understanding and applying these principles, learners will be able to create XR-enhanced learning environments that are respectful, safe, and effective for a diverse range of users, promoting a more inclusive and equitable educational experience.