Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates the utilization of Virtual Reality (VR) technology as a tool to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes in high school science classes. The integration of VR technology in educational settings has gained momentum in recent years, offering immersive and interactive experiences that have the potential to transform traditional teaching methods. This research explores the effectiveness of VR in engaging students in science education and evaluates its impact on their academic performance. The study begins by providing an overview of the background of VR technology and its applications in education, highlighting the need for innovative approaches to teaching and learning in the digital age. The problem statement identifies the challenges faced in traditional science education methods and underscores the potential benefits of incorporating VR technology to address these issues. The objectives of the study focus on assessing the impact of VR on student engagement, academic achievement, and retention of scientific concepts. Methodologically, a mixed-methods approach is employed to gather data, including surveys, interviews, and classroom observations. The research methodology chapter outlines the research design, sampling techniques, data collection procedures, and analysis methods utilized in the study. The literature review chapter critically examines existing research on VR technology in education, highlighting key findings and theoretical frameworks that inform the current study. The findings chapter presents the results of the research, showcasing the impact of VR technology on student engagement and learning outcomes in high school science classes. The discussion delves into the implications of the findings, discussing the practical implications for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders in the field of science education. The conclusion chapter summarizes the key findings, discusses the contributions of the study to the existing literature, and offers recommendations for future research and practice. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of research on the use of VR technology in education and highlights its potential to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes in high school science classes. By leveraging immersive technologies like VR, educators can create dynamic and interactive learning experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking among students, ultimately fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of science concepts.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "The Use of Virtual Reality Technology in Enhancing Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes in High School Science Classes" aims to explore the potential benefits of integrating virtual reality (VR) technology into high school science education. Virtual reality technology offers immersive and interactive experiences that have the potential to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes in various educational settings. In the context of science education, VR can provide students with opportunities to explore complex scientific concepts in a more visual and interactive manner, thereby fostering deeper understanding and retention of the subject matter. The research will begin with a comprehensive literature review to examine existing studies on the use of VR technology in education, with a focus on its impact on student engagement and learning outcomes. This review will provide a theoretical foundation for the study and help identify gaps in the current research that the project aims to address. The project will then proceed to outline the research methodology, which will include the selection of a sample group of high school students and the design of VR-based science lessons. The study will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative measures such as pre- and post-assessment tests with qualitative data gathered through student surveys and interviews. This approach will enable a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of VR technology on student engagement and learning outcomes in high school science classes. The findings of the study will be discussed in detail, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges associated with the use of VR technology in science education. The project will also consider practical implications for teachers and educators looking to integrate VR technology into their instructional practices, providing recommendations for effective implementation strategies. In conclusion, the research overview emphasizes the importance of exploring innovative technologies such as virtual reality in education to enhance student engagement and improve learning outcomes. By investigating the use of VR technology in high school science classes, this project aims to contribute to the growing body of research on technology-enhanced learning and provide insights into effective practices for leveraging VR in science education.