Issues and perspectives on Virtual and Augmented Reality in STEM education: (Panel paper)

The panel discussion on Virtual and Augmented Reality in STEM education (VARSTEME) addresses very acutely the conference theme, Embracing Change and Transformation in a Technologically Enhanced Environment through Mathematics, Science and Technology Education (MSTE) Research. Novel interactive technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) (hereafter VAR) show incredible potential for enabling new embodied learning scenarios, thereby enabling novice learners to understand difficult concepts through experiential learning. However, juxtaposed with this drive for technology-enabled learning (TEL) in Africa are various factors that need to be considered. The successful infusion of TEL in STEM is inherently and inextricably context-dependent, and interacts in significant ways with national/local educational and curriculum policy; science teachers’ education, background, beliefs, attitudes and professional development; funding and resources, including science equipment; learners’ background, life-worlds, aspirations, cultural and social beliefs; among a number of other factors. The symposium will share with the audience research done on VAR integration in the South African context, and explore key issues in VAR integration in science education.