“Immersive technologies are shaping the future of online education”

Györgyi “Gira” Szakmár has over 20 years of experience in the gaming industry, specializing in game-based learning solutions in the past seven years. In her role as Multimedia Design Manager at the Luxembourg Media & Digital Design Centre (LMDDC), Gira leads the creation and implementation of digital media content, focusing on educational games, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and generative AI technologies. We interviewed her during Learning Impact Europe 2024, the conference hosted by the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC) from October 9 to 11, in which she participated as a speaker.

How can AI be integrated into the field of immersive technologies?

As someone deeply engaged with gaming, immersive technologies, and using AI in my everyday work and life, I believe that merging these fields serves as a transformative catalyst. Integrating AI into virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) leads to experiences that are not only more interactive, but also highly personalized. For example, AI algorithms can adapt the virtual environment in real time based on user interactions, learning styles or emotional responses, making each experience unique and adaptive. Integrating AI into feedback mechanisms would give teachers the extra “arms” they need to be able to help where they are most needed, while allowing students to advance at their own pace.

How can immersive technologies be helpful in the field of online education?

These technologies are shaping the future of education and, as devices become more affordable, growing numbers of people can access them. I’ve seen how VR and AR can turn abstract concepts into tangible experiences. Students can virtually explore historical sites, interact with complex scientific simulations or collaborate in 3D spaces, all from the comfort of their homes. This hands-on approach makes learning more engaging and can significantly improve retention and understanding. However, we should remember that immersive technology isn’t a magic solution and should be used only when it clearly adds educational value that justifies the costs and effort for teachers.

What role can gamification play in higher education?

At universities, students who have just transitioned from childhood are expected to complete their tasks because it’s the rational decision – it’s their responsibility. During this sensitive period, they receive less personal attention and feedback than they’re used to, which can be challenging. Gamification is part of our everyday life: allowing yourself a pudding after finishing a workout is a reward; being named the best in your group places you atop an imaginary leader board; checking all the boxes on your to-do list is like completing a mission in a game. We now have the tools to elevate gamification to a whole new level by delivering real-life rewards and benefits in personalized, easy-to-track and visually engaging digital environments. Let’s face it – we all need a little reinforcement from time to time!

What are the roles that professors can adopt in immersive educational experiences?

Those who engage with immersive technology today are still considered pioneers. As opportunities to utilize these technologies continue to expand, there are countless pathways where they can evolve. I believe universities, professors and students play a critical role in shaping how immersive technologies are integrated into the education system. Within this academic environment, this revolutionary technology can acquire a scientific foundation that amplifies its benefits and mitigates potential risks. Professors can become facilitators and guides, helping students navigate through virtual environments and encouraging exploration and critical thinking. They also act as content creators or curators, designing immersive experiences that align with learning objectives.

How do you envision the future of education?

I believe that the future of education will be a harmonious blend of technology and human interaction. It’s important to recognize that “digital” doesn’t necessarily mean “distance” nor is it the opposite of “face-to-face” or “physical” learning. With advancements in AI and immersive technologies, education will become more accessible and tailored to individual learning styles. Imagine virtual classrooms where students from around the world collaborate in real-time, breaking down geographical and economic barriers. This future holds the promise of not just imparting knowledge, but also fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong passion for learning.

The eLinC Observatory believes that immersive technologies and gamification have great potential in the field of education from all perspectives and at all levels, from primary and secondary education (K–12) to higher education, vocational education and training (VET) and corporate training. As Gira said, they will help personalize students’ educational experience, and in the future we will see how new technologies such as the metaverse and AI will use adapted pedagogies to expand on these possibilities. In the same way as with other technologies applied to education, teachers will have to embrace these new technologies and become literate in them in order to reap the benefits of introducing them into the learning process.

We’ll be back with more interviews with the conference speakers soon.