Poster #15 - Excursion Into Empathy: Exploring Prejudice With Virtual Reality

• In Event: 81.034 - MTCC Poster Session 20
  In Poster Session: 81.034-3 - Virtual Worlds and Presence

Abstract

This study contributes to a growing literature on the use of virtual reality in education, and in particular, explores the potential of VR to encourage prosocial behavior and cultivate empathy among young learners. Implementation occurred in a first grade classroom to assess the relevance of testimony-based education for primary-age audiences, particularly with respect to established learning outcomes for responsible citizenship, and to determine the feasibility of using virtual reality as part of instruction with young learners. The results confirmed benefits of implementation, and the experience fostered a shared dialogue and strengthened the classroom community’s commitment to social justice and civic engagement, with sustained effects over several months.

Authors

• Ilene R. Berson, University of South Florida

• Michael J. Berson, University of South Florida

• Jennifer Ward, Kennesaw State University

• Claudia R. Wiedeman