Immersive Journalism in the Classroom: Enhancing Critical Media Literacy, Engagement, and Ethical Awareness through VR and AR Narratives

Abstract

Immersive journalism, delivered through virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences, offers unique opportunities to foster critical media literacy, civic engagement, and ethical awareness. This paper investigates the pedagogical value of immersive journalism by examining its capacity to cultivate critical thinking skills, deepen audience trust, and enhance engagement compared to traditional news formats. Drawing upon two case studies—Clouds Over Sidra and Enemy—this research employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative surveys and qualitative thematic analysis to assess learner perceptions, emotional responses, and critical reflection outcomes in educational settings. Results highlight that immersive journalism facilitates deeper empathetic engagement and promotes nuanced understanding of complex socio-political issues. However, ethical considerations—including the risks of emotional manipulation, representational bias, and accessibility barriers—emerge as crucial factors for responsible implementation. The paper concludes with pedagogical recommendations for integrating immersive journalism into media literacy curricula, emphasizing the need for transparent design, critical deconstruction exercises, and inclusivity.