Handbook of Learning in Virtual Reality

A landmark reference work on learning and training in immersive virtual reality based on evidence and empirical research.

The Handbook of Learning in Virtual Reality is the first comprehensive, evidence-based compendium of research on learning in immersive virtual reality (VR) for academic instruction and professional training. Written by leading researchers from around the globe, this landmark reference work synthesizes the rapidly growing body of the scientific literature on learning with VR, aiming to define and shape this emerging educational technology discipline.

Jan Plass, Richard Mayer, and Guido Makransky establish a solid empirical and theoretical foundation for VR-based learning. They focus on immersive VR—using head-mounted displays like the Meta Quest or HTC Vive—and examine how the subjective feeling of presence impacts learning outcomes.

The book provides foundational overviews, a theoretical framework spanning cognitive, affective, and social processes, and crucial media comparison research (VR versus conventional media). It delves into value-added instructional design features—such as collaboration, generative activities, virtual agents, and haptic input—that boost learning outcomes. Finally, it explores disciplinary-based applications in medicine, science, second language learning, and job training, alongside special topics like accessibility, assessment, and the use of VR with culturally diverse populations.