Developing Historical Empathy Through Virtual Reality: Integration of Virtual Reality Into a Social Studies Classroom

• In Event: Simulations and Immersive Learning Experiences

Abstract

The use of virtual reality (VR) in a social studies lesson has the potential to create authentic learning environments where students interact with historical events and develop historical empathy. Consequently, we integrated Anne Frank House VR in a 9th-grade history classroom and explored how the use of VR influenced students’ historical empathy development as well as classroom engagement and historical knowledge development. Data included (a) pre and post-knowledge tests, (b) pre-and post-surveys, c) teacher interviews, (d) student interviews, (e) students’ daily writing reflections, and (f) field observations. The findings presented that VR provided an immersive learning experience, which helped students better understand the experiences of Anne Frank and develop historical empathy.

Authors

• Ashley L. Riner, Auburn University

• Jung Won Hur, Auburn University