Virtual Reality and Metacognition Training Techniques for Learning Disabilities

Abstract

The current research aims to investigate the effectiveness of brain-rewiring techniques applied in virtual reality environments as a pioneer intervention for people with learning disabilities and various disorders. In addition, we examine whether these VR-assisted techniques can improve metacognitive skills. Specifically, we emphasize the advantage of VR clinical hypnosis, VR neurolinguistic programming, VR subliminal training, VR fast learning, VR mindfulness, and VR breathing training. The results of this review study revealed that virtual reality provides a fertile ground for the practice of therapeutic metacognitive techniques. In addition, experimental research revealed beneficial effects on learning disabilities, cognitive impairments, autism, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), depression, generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, and behavioral and emotional disorders. It was revealed that VR brain-rewiring techniques constitute effective metacognitive strategies for people with various disorders. Therapists, educators, parents, and even patients could utilize VR brain-rewiring techniques at home, at school, or in the workplace to train the 21st-century meta-abilities. This study also highlights the need to create virtual metacognitive training environments to accelerate inclusion, equity, and peak performance.

The use of virtual reality and augmented reality in psychosocial rehabilitation for adults with neurodevelopmental disorders: A systematic review

“…More research can be done on how VR or AR can facilitate strategy learning and enhance the effectiveness of evidence-based programs such as IPS. Robust studies could also be conducted on the use of VR or AR on other therapeutic interventions such as metacognition training ( 73 , 74 ). In addition, the use of a consistent set of standardized functional outcome measures will enable the pooling of outcome data.…”

Metamemory: Metacognitive Strategies for Improved Memory Operations and the Role of VR and Mobiles

“…In addition, virtual reality can facilitate autobiographic memory retrieval, which provides great opportunities for people with memory impairment. Most important, VR facilitates the reactivation, extinction, and reconsolidation of memories boosting relearning and unlearning processes [ 93 , 101 , 102 ]. Therefore, it is apparent that virtual reality provides a wide range of opportunities for metamemory training that permit learners to take control of their memory, make appropriate decisions, and acquire a better understanding of memory functions.…”

A Study on Rehabilitation Specialists’ Perception of Experience with a Virtual Reality Program

“…To construct a Q-population in this study, a literature review was performed, and in-depth interviews were conducted with 5 rehabilitation specialists who had experience administering augmented and immersive VR programs 10 times or more. To construct statements, first, the researchers derived a total of 53 statements regarding rehabilitation specialists’ experience with VR program administration, from news articles and previous studies [ 10 , 11 , 12 , 36 , 37 , 38 ]. Next, 5 rehabilitation specialists were interviewed and as a result, 21 statements were added, therefore there was a total of 74 statements.…”

“…VR has been utilised in fields such as healthcare, education, rehabilitation, industries, and games [ 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 ]. In particular, studies have been conducted to develop various programs for rehabilitation of the elderly and the disabled to investigate the effects [ 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 ]. Hence, based on the strengths of VR technology, its applicability as a rehabilitation and therapeutic tool is vast [ 15 ].…”