Virtual reality and augmented reality technologies for art education: The perceptions and responses of undergraduate students

Abstract

The emergent culture of COVID-19 underscored a gap among generations with regards to their responses to new innovations in the education field. This article explores the educational potential of VR/AR for the secondary art curriculum through the perspectives and responses of undergraduate art students. The paper examines the writing outcomes of a discussion board forum activity that I created to invite the students to share their responses to and reflections on the use of VR/AR technologies in visual art and art education. I share the students’ perspectives on VR/AR use for studio art making under the following three themes: 1) excitement about the new art medium, 2) strengths and risks, and 3) educational potential for K-12 curriculum integration. In discussing the students’ reflections, contemporary artists’ use of VR/AR is also explored as a resource for art educators. I end the paper by providing suggestions for art educators interested in incorporating VA/AR into their art lessons.