virtual learning

immersive technology

British Journal of Educational Technology

The use of video is commonplace for professional preparation in education and other fields. Research has provided evidence that the use of video in these contexts can lead to increased noticing and reflection. However, educators now have access to evolving forms of video such as 360 video. The purpose of this study was to adapt and validate an instrument for assessing immersive 360 video use in an undergraduate preservice teacher university training program. Data provided evidence of the validity of the Extended Reality Presence Scale (XRPS) for 360 video research in preservice teacher professional development. Moreover, evidence from the study suggests that those with higher feelings of presence are less likely to jump around (or twitch) while watching 360 videos. The main implications are that: a) the XRPS is a validated and reliable instrument and b) more research is needed to examine the presence and practices for in-service and preservice teachers while watching 360 video. Practitioners notes What is already known about this topic? Instructional videos are widely used in preservice teacher training. 360 videos show promise for improving preservice teacher professional development in terms of immersion and presence. What this paper adds? An instrument for assessing 360 video teacher presence is presented (XRPS), targeting a current gap in the literature. Data provided evidence of the validity of the tool for future 360 video research and integration. Implications for practice and/or policy Practitioners can use XRPS for assessing preservice teachers’ experiences in immersive environments and evaluating 360 videos. Higher feelings of presence are associated with more focused viewpoints. Therefore, practitioners should support and facilitate this watching behavior. Higher scores of presence are associated with a perceived sense of agency and emotional attachment. Therefore, 360 videos should include design elements promoting these feelings.

Situating presence within extended reality for teacher training: Validation of the extended Reality Presence Scale (XRPS) in preservice teacher use of immersive 360 video