Author Identifier
Vincenzina Cordery: http://orcid.org/0000-0002-3420-3127
Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (Integrated)
School
School of Education
First Supervisor
Nicola Johnson
Second Supervisor
Andrew Jones
Abstract
This thesis explores the perceptions and experiences of secondary educators in Western Australia regarding the implementation of Virtual Reality (VR) in their teaching practices. Although VR is increasingly recognised for its immersive and engaging learning potential, its integration in secondary schools remains limited. Adopting an exploratory qualitative approach, this study draws on two phases of data collection, an online questionnaire and follow-up semi-structured interviews, to examine the pedagogical, technological, and contextual factors influencing VR adoption.
The study is framed by the TPACK-X model, which considers the interplay of educators’ content, pedagogical, technological, and contextual knowledge. Findings reveal that while VR is valued for enhancing student engagement, supporting inclusive practices, and making abstract concepts more accessible, integration is often constrained by cost, limited content, infrastructure challenges, and gaps in teacher confidence and training. The study also highlights how leadership support, strategic planning, and access to professional learning can positively shape educators’ capacity to embed VR meaningfully into curriculum delivery.
This research contributes to the field of educational technology by offering new insights into the lived realities of VR implementation in schools. It provides evidence-based recommendations for teachers, school leaders, policymakers, and technology developers seeking to foster more sustainable, equitable, and pedagogically sound uses of immersive technology in secondary education.
Access Note
Access to this thesis is embargoed until 7th November 2029
Recommended Citation
Cordery, V. D. (2025). “It could be exciting”: Factors affecting Virtual Reality implementation in secondary education. Edith Cowan University. Retrieved from https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/2992
Included in
Curriculum and Instruction Commons, Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons, Educational Methods Commons, Secondary Education Commons