Motivating Learners with Virtual Reality
Abstract: This literature review addresses issues of both student motivation and characteristics of virtual learning environments. In addition, connections are made between learning theories that support student motivation and the role that virtual learning environments can play in the motivation of students. This review provides an overview of the characteristics of virtual environments that have been linked to increased student motivation. While researchers have noted that virtual reality, like other forms of technology, has the ability to motivate students, it is not a panacea to the lack of motivation faced by many students. The issue of further research due to limitations in existing studies is also discussed. These limitations include the “novelty effect” in relationship to the lack of longitudinal studies conducted on this topic.