Virtual reality in astronomy education: reflecting on design principles through a dialogue between researchers and practitioners

Virtual reality (VR) technologies have the potential to transform education practices profoundly: new forms of visual, perceptual engagement and embodied participation authentic learning experiences in formal and informal learning. While a growing body of research studies the educational needs opportunities of VR astronomy education from the learner’s, relatively few studies have explored the perspectives of and public outreach (EPO) professionals. This study aims to our attention to these complementary perspectives and shed light design considerations for using VR in astronomy education. We design principles as a dialogue between researchers and, framing this dialogue as an act of reflective practice. The and the ensuing dialogue draw on data from two focus group with EPO professionals and scientists from the Australian Council Centre of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery. design principles centre on aspects of immersion, visualisation,, and collaboration and can guide astronomy educators who to use VR in formal and informal learning environments. Besides, study contributes to a deeper understanding of the new learning VR technologies can create in astronomy education.