ESENSI: Jurnal Riset Pendidikan
Vol. 2 No. 2 (2026): ESENSI: Jurnal Riset Pendidikan

Virtual and Augmented Reality as Tools for Enhanced Science Instruction

Salman Hidayat (Biology Education Study Program, Institut Agama Islam Negeri Palangka Raya, Indonesia)
Herri Setiawan (Biology Education Study Program, Institut Agama Islam Negeri Palangka Raya, Indonesia)
Lili Herawati (Biology Education Study Program, Institut Agama Islam Negeri Palangka Raya, Indonesia)
Kittisak Rattanapong (Biology Education Study Program, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study investigates the role of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality as tools for enhanced science instruction. It addresses persistent challenges in science education, including low student engagement, difficulty in understanding abstract concepts, and limited access to laboratory experiences. Using a structured experimental design, the research examines how immersive technologies influence learning outcomes, motivation, and classroom engagement. The findings show that both Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality improve students’ conceptual understanding and learning performance. Virtual Reality has strong effects on spatial reasoning and deep conceptual focus through fully immersive environments. Augmented Reality supports contextual learning by linking digital representations with real-world laboratory settings. Students exposed to immersive instruction demonstrate higher attention, curiosity, and active participation compared to those in traditional settings. Motivation emerges as a key factor mediating learning gains. Immersive activities encourage exploration, inquiry, and sustained engagement, which support deeper cognitive processing. The study also finds that effectiveness depends on pedagogical alignment. Learning gains are strongest when technologies are integrated with clear objectives, guided inquiry, and reflective discussion. The results suggest that immersive technologies complement conventional instruction and expand opportunities for meaningful and effective science learning experiences.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

esensi

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Mathematics Other

Description

ESENSI: Jurnal Riset Pendidikan (EJRP) is a scientific journal in the field of education that published by Gema Cendekia Institute. The aim of this journal is to publish high quality research in education both using qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods. This journal is designed and devoted to ...