Challenges and Opportunities for the Web 3.0 Metaverse Turn in Education

Abstract

The metaverse, along with its various Web 3.0 subdomains, represents a ground-breaking extension of both the physical and digital worlds. In this emerging landscape, the real and virtual worlds are integrating in a way that allows for seamless interactions, creating an immersive experience. This integration has significant implications for diverse fields, particularly in reshaping both online and traditional education methods. By analyzing 417 comprehensive white papers released in 2022 and 2023 from leading consulting firms and think tanks, and incorporating insights from academic articles, we have extracted key information about how metaverse technologies are influencing education over time. Our investigation unveils the key impacts of metaverse technologies on the educational landscape, contributing to a more profound understanding of the transformative effects of the metaverse on the educational terrain in flux. Moreover, our study provides a holistic perspective on the advantages and disadvantages associated with metaverse education, offering in-depth insights into the challenges involved in seamlessly integrating the metaverse into educational practices. Furthermore, our research also highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by the metaverse and its impact on new educational paradigms.