How Does VR Affect Motivation, Engagement, Performance and Student Interest in High School Science?

Author

Ann Marie CarrierFollow

Date of Award

Summer 7-22-2024

Degree Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Degree Name

Doctor of Education

Department

School of Instructional Technology and Innovation

Committee Chair/First Advisor

Dr. Jason R. Harron

Second Advisor

Dr. Laurie Dias

Third Advisor

Dr. Yi Jin

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of virtual reality (VR) on high school science students' motivation, engagement, performance, and interest in STEM disciplines. Building on Huang et al. (2021), this research replicates and extends their findings, focusing on how different levels of VR immersion influence learning outcomes. The study aligns with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and the Georgia Standards of Excellence (GSE). Utilizing a quasi-experimental design, 123 high school students experienced varying levels of immersive VR via the Titans of Space Plus app on Meta Quest 2 headsets and desktop computers. Study population included 55% males, 45% minorities, and 56% with special needs. Likert surveys and pre-post assessments measured changes in motivation, engagement, performance, spatial reasoning, and STEM interest. Quantitative data analyses revealed significant improvements in learning outcomes across all VR levels. Tests included ANOVA, t-tests, Levene's test, and correlational analysis. Despite no significant differences between immersion groups, VR consistently enhanced motivation and engagement. Self-paced activities yielded the lowest improvements, while most participants exhibited enhanced spatial reasoning after VR exposure. There were no significant changes in long-term interest in STEM fields. These findings underscore VR's potential as an educational tool for future learning conditions, especially for special populations and undermotivated students. This research demonstrates how VR can maximize educational benefits as an inclusive and effective teaching strategy provided that thoughtful instructional design and structured methodologies are leveraged. Further investigations into VR's long-term effects and its impact on diverse learning populations are recommended.