IMMERSIVE LEARNING IN THE ERA OF AI: TECHNOLOGY-ENHANCED PEDAGOGY FOR SUSTAINABLE-LEARNING FUTURES: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies is transforming education and demanding pedagogical approaches that are both innovative and sustainable. Immersive learning has emerged as a promising paradigm that enhances learner engagement, supports experiential understanding, and enables contextualized knowledge construction. This study systematically reviews the literature on immersive learning in AI-driven and technology-enhanced educational settings. It focuses on its pedagogical contributions to sustainable learning futures. Using a systematic literature review (SLR) approach, relevant peer-reviewed studies were identified, screened, and analyzed from major academic databases. The review synthesizes key aspects, including conceptualizations of immersive learning, enabling technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and AI-based systems, as well as associated pedagogical models and learning outcomes. Additionally, it examines the role of immersive learning in fostering competencies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including inclusivity, equity, and lifelong learning. The findings indicate that immersive learning enhances engagement, deepens cognitive processing, and improves knowledge retention, while AI integration supports adaptive and personalized learning. However, challenges remain in accessibility, ethics, technological readiness, and pedagogical integration. This review provides insights into advancing innovative and sustainable technology-enhanced pedagogy.