{"id":50213,"date":"2024-08-29T15:01:34","date_gmt":"2024-08-29T19:01:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/carleton.ca\/tls\/?page_id=50213"},"modified":"2025-07-03T08:47:53","modified_gmt":"2025-07-03T12:47:53","slug":"accessibility-and-equity-in-extended-reality","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/carleton.ca\/tls\/experiential-learning-hub\/accessibility-and-equity-in-extended-reality\/","title":{"rendered":"Accessibility and Equity in Extended Reality"},"content":{"rendered":"

Immersive technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) can help increase access to experiential learning opportunities and have the potential to make a transformational impact on student learning. These technologies can provide unique learning experiences for students, such as virtual field trips, virtual simulations, and embodied learning experiences through 360 degree, immersive stories.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

However, VR and AR can also present some barriers to learning, such as cybersickness, limitations on the length of time that can be spent in a headset, and equipment barriers for people with physical disabilities.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Due to the immersive nature of the medium, VR can also heighten a user\u2019s emotional experience and shift a student\u2019s viewpoint to a first-person perspective that might not otherwise be possible in the real world (e.g. experiencing vision loss or practicing public speaking to a large crowd). While this can effectively engage students in a more embodied, holistic learning experience, it also risks triggering negative emotions or verging into the territory of identity tourism.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For these reasons, it is important to consider potential accessibility, safety, and equity challenges to ensure everyone has the best learning experience possible and has a fair chance at participating in this innovative learning opportunity.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Tips for More Accessible and Inclusive VR Experiences<\/h2>\n

One effective way to create a more equitable and accessible XR experience in your class is to use a <\/span>UDL perspective<\/span><\/a> when designing the course and XR activity. While this will not necessarily remove all barriers, it is an excellent starting point.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition to using the UDL model, below are some recommendations you will want to consider.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Remember that when working with staff in the Experiential Learning Hub to plan a class visit for a VR experience, they can consult with you on how best to integrate a VR experience into your course and advise on accessibility and equity concerns.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Practical Considerations<\/a><\/dt>

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