Chapter 18: Digital Applications in Higher Education Through The Metaverse

Advances in digital technology provide a new frontier for higher education. The metaverse is part of that new dimension that blends together several current smart technologies that provide a vehicle for integrating educational modalities into the transformations of twenty-first century educational science. There is an emerging literature focusing on the next generation of educational applications with specific attention to the use of digital technology as a part of curriculum development and educational instruction. Examining the impact of the metaverse on higher education has become the focus of educational scientists and practitioners. The metaverse is generally regarded as a network of a three-dimensional virtual world where people can interact, through their virtual “avatars.”

A metaverse is understood to be a space where humans can participate in shared virtual, interactive, and integrated experiences. It is conceptualized as an integrated medium, a virtual reality version of today’s internet. The metaverse can include virtual reality which is characterized by persistent virtual worlds that continue to exist even when they are not being used. They provide an “augmented reality” that combines aspects of the digital and the physical worlds. From a more scientific perspective, the metaverse is defined as a combination of multiple elements of technology, including virtual reality, augmented reality, and video where users live within a digital universe. Scientific supporters of the metaverse envision its users learning, working, and creating interactive experiences that benefit the learner. Both educators and their students can benefit from this technology and provide innovative opportunities in higher education. Examined are relevant definition, the evidenced based resources for high education, and current uses along with futuristic applications using advances in technology. Anticipated challenges and trends are offered in the use of these digital technological advances in higher education.