Metaverse-Based Classroom: The Good and the Bad

This study investigates the Metaverse-based class-room, an innovative educational approach combining virtual reality (VR) technologies with traditional learning methods. It focuses on developing and evaluating a prototype in a controlled setting involving students and teachers. The Metaverse concept in education is grounded in constructive learning theory, em-phasizing active engagement and experience, and the theory of social presence in online learning, enhancing the sense of being in a shared space. The prototype, showcased at the Dubai G ITEX event in 2023, integrates features from existing online platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, such as resource and screen sharing, with the immersive experience of VR, where users interact via avatars. This design aims to utilize VR's benefits to boost engagement and interactivity in learning. The prototype's effectiveness was further assessed in a real classroom environment, involving typical activities like lectures and discussions. Feedback from the GITEX event and classroom evaluations, including observations, user feedback, and interviews, were analyzed using grounded theory and thematic analysis. Findings indicate a positive reception of the Metaverse-based classroom, particularly its immersive and interactive aspects, which enhance engagement and offer a novel learning experience. However, chal-lenges were identified, including hardware discomfort, software glitches, and concerns about the Metaverse's applicability in diverse educational settings. These insights highlight the need for improved hardware ergonomics, software usability, and inclusive design, pointing to future research directions for optimizing Metaverse- based learning environments.