A taxonomy of social embedding - A systematic review of virtual learning simulations in vocational and professional learning

Vocational and professional learning largely occurs in social situations as an interaction between learners and their occupational environment. Due to the increasing digitization of work and learning, virtual learning simulations (VLS) have been on the rise. Yet, it is unclear to which degree VLS can adequately simulate and foster the social dimension of work-related learning. Drawing on different streams of assessment-related authenticity research, we present a five-level taxonomy of social embedding as an evaluative framework: (1) social placement, (2) social action, (3) social reaction, (4) social interaction, (5) collaborative interaction. We then conduct a systematic review and categorize 23 available VLS regarding their degree of social embedding. The results reveal a large variety of social interaction opportunities with a clear focus on social action, social reaction and social interaction. We recommend increasing social immersion in VLS, particularly by combining them with external communication platforms.