Public values for XR in education and research

As technologies continue to digitalise our world of education and research, it's time to shape their influence in a responsible manner. Many educational institutions are exploring XR technologies, and the rise of innovation and experimentation is exciting. But as we address technical issues, order headsets, and expand virtual experiences into new domains, we must ensure that this progress aligns with our shared public values.

In this document, we present the key components of the discussion surrounding the use of eXtended Reality (XR) technologies in education and research. The first step is to gain insight into how XR is being used in specific real-world examples and to begin asking new questions about XR from the perspective of public values.

Case Study 1 focuses on VR-based digital laboratories in the Netherlands. We raise critical questions about the technology in this (lab) context, encouraging both users and developers to take the role of responsible technology seriously.

Case Study 2 concerns VR-powered virtual presentation training. Here too, we pose critical questions about the technology, helping both users and developers become more aware of its role in their personal contexts.

3 conclusions

1. XR in training has proven effective in specific applications, leading to new transformations in both lab training and communication.
2. Using public values as a foundation for serious reflection on XR technologies leads to new, more critical questions for both educators and researchers as they consider these technologies for their own situations.
3. To put these public values into practice, XR technologies must be aligned with our public values through responsible practices.