Making in virtual reality environments: a case study of K-12 teachers’ perceptions on the educational affordances of virtual reality for maker-centered learning

The emergence of immersive VR technology in K-12 educational spaces has created a need for research examining the affordances and constraints of this technology for student learning. The current study uses a case-study methodology to illustrate K-12 secondary science teachers’ perceived affordances and constraints of using immersive VR tools to develop maker-centered learning experiences which align with curricular goals following a professional development experience. Findings suggest teachers were able to design student-centered maker learning experiences using immersive VR devices that addressed K-12 science content. In addition, participants discovered ways to overcome reported challenges, and develop teaching artifacts as well. This study offers a model for teacher educators in this area, examples of curriculum aligned learning activities, and provides a foundation for future research on integration of VR in K-12 contexts.