VR Gaming for Meta-Skills Training in Special Education: The Role of Metacognition, Motivations, and Emotional Intelligence

Abstract

Inclusion, equality, and well-being for all, especially for people with special needs and disabilities, is globally recognized as a priority. At the same time, there is an urgent need to create digital training environments for people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Virtual reality (VR) and gaming technologies have entered the race at full speed for skills training. Despite significant research on each of these technologies, there is still limited knowledge about the effectiveness of virtual reality games (VRGs) in targeted groups such as those with SEND. Thus, the current systematic review paper aims to investigate the effectiveness of gaming in virtual reality as an intervention strategy for meta-skills training among people with neurodevelopmental, cognitive disorders, and learning difficulties. The PRISMA 2020 methodology was used to respond to the objective and research questions. This study also emphasizes the mediating role of motivations, metacognition, and emotional intelligence as important assets for meta-skills development. The database search generated 1100 records, and 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. This study concludes that VRGs have the potential to support people with SEND in terms of raising motivation and developing metacognitive skills, as well as in developing the emotional intelligence skills needed for inclusion, accomplishment, an independent life, and personal well-being. As was observed, VRGs provided the subjects with positive experiences, allowing them to internalize motivations and—with less effort—develop self-motivated, self-regulated, and flexible behaviors.

Greater usage and positive mood change for users of a dynamic VR app before and after the COVID-19 pandemic onset

“…Presence may mirror similar components as that of restoration ( Lessiter et al, 2001 ; Schubert et al, 2001 ; Freeman, 2004 ; De Kort et al, 2006 ). According to Mitsea et al (2023) , VR content minimizes cognitive load, mental fatigue, and increases processing capacity. Several studies have shown that fun ratings for VR positively correlate with sense of presence and pain reduction ( Hoffman et al, 2006 , 2008 ; Maani et al, 2011 ).…”

“…VR content may not only distract a user’s attention but also direct the user’s attention toward targeted goals or behaviors ( Mitsea et al, 2023 ). Digital game-based tasks that challenge the user to overcome obstacles through attention or observation offer intrinsic or external rewards and reinforcement.…”

“…Digital game-based tasks that challenge the user to overcome obstacles through attention or observation offer intrinsic or external rewards and reinforcement. They can improve self-efficacy, mental and emotional well-being as well as self-regulation ( Mitsea et al, 2023 ). These games can also enhance positive emotions, satisfy psychological needs, and contribute to feelings of control ( Mitsea et al, 2023 ).…”

“…While the literature is rich with studies exploring how VR may be an effective method for distraction in and out of the healthcare setting ( Hoffman et al, 2014 ; Small et al, 2015 ; Burns-Nadera et al, 2017 ; Boylan et al, 2018 ; Khadra et al, 2018 ; Piskorz and Czub, 2018 ; Soltani et al, 2018 ; Hoffman et al, 2019 ; Spiegel et al, 2019 ), it is more limited on the usage behavior and efficacy of VR apps with unique content features on psychological stress and anxiety reduction, excluding the growing literature on mindfulness and meditative practices ( Seabrook et al, 2020 ; Mazgelyte et al, 2021 ; Drigas et al, 2022 ; Kelly et al, 2022 ; Mitsea et al, 2022 , 2023 ). Moreover, the psychological effects of these content features and user app use have not been adequately investigated in the consumer user population during a pandemic setting.…”

Developmental Coordination Disorder and the role of new technologies as intervention tool

“…Because VR provides a ludic, safe, controlled, and motivating training environment, it can be an interesting avenue of intervention for people with several types of disabilities. VR educational applications have already demonstrated promising results in this regard (Mitsea et al, 2023).…”