A Review of Virtual Reality Intervention Research for Students With Disabilities in K-12 Settings

Virtual reality (VR) technology has improved in access and availability in the area of K-12 instruction, increasingly being cited for its promise to meet the varied learning needs of individuals with disabilities. This descriptive review of 25 research studies conducted in K-12 settings examined the defining characteristics of immersion levels associated with VR, the purpose and application of the augmented reality intervention, the outcomes associated with the current use of VR, and the possibility of generalization beyond VR. The results of the review reveal that a majority of studies are utilizing nonimmersive screen-based simulations. While still considered under the VR domain, these technologies do not take advantage of the features of semi- and fully immersive VR which make it an appealing intervention for students with disabilities. Based on the results of this review, we provide recommendations to establish a strong research base on emerging VR technology and its use for students with disabilities in the K-12 classroom.

Automated summary

Virtual reality technology is increasingly used in K-12 education to meet the learning needs of students with disabilities. However, most research studies in this area have focused on nonimmersive screen-based simulations, and there is a need for more exploration of semi- and fully immersive VR technology.