Exercisable Learning-Theory and Evidence-Based Andragogy for Training Effectiveness using XR (ELEVATE-XR): Elevating the ROI of Immersive Technologies

eXtended Reality (XR) promises to provide a powerful capability to disseminate a vast array of instructional content appropriate for all types and levels of learners, ultimately revolutionizing education and training. Yet, while XR presents an opportunity for a powerful paradigm shift in education, a scientifically grounded andragogy for harnessing the didactic power of XR has yet to emerge. Herein, a unified framework of research-based instructional strategies for guiding the design of proficiency-based XR educational and training content is proposed, along with an associated naval maintenance use case. While this work draws on relevant pedagogical and andragogical theories, as well as fundamental learning theories applicable to learners of all ages, the framework specifically targets adult learners and training of complex skills applicable to various professional domains. Within the framework, learning theories have been aligned with learner proficiency level to specify competency-based learning objectives and activities, XR form factors, and learning loops that are anticipated to boost XR training efficacy. The proposed framework—the Exercisable Learning-theory and EVidence-based Andragogy for Training Effectiveness using XR (ELEVATE-XR)—is meant to serve as a guide to drive effective and efficient design of XR applications that enhance adult learning.