The efficacy and safety of immersive virtual reality in children’s safety training: a systematic literature review
Xinzhe Liao, Amirrudin Kamsin, Nurul Fazmidar Binti Mohd Noor · Interactive Learning Environments · 2025
Immersive virtual reality (IVR) is a promising method for children’s safety training, driven by affordable head-mounted displays (HMDs) and the rise of experiential learning. This systematic review aims to examine training topics, IVR technologies, training methods, theoretical foundations, and research designs. Following PRISMA , we retrieved peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers published in English between 2016 and 2024, resulting in 28 empirical studies. The findings reveal a significant focus on pedestrian safety, while fire, water, earthquake, and violence prevention training received limited attention. The learning outcomes indicate notable improvements in behavioral skills and learner engagement but only modest gains in declarative knowledge. Full-IVR technologies are the most prevalent, particularly role-playing games (RPGs) delivered via high-end HMDs. However, motion sickness and practical deployment challenges persist. Alternatively, 360° videos viewed on mobile HMDs offer a lower-cost, less interactive option that appears more suitable for younger children. Despite pedagogical claims, few studies integrate learning theories. Resarch designs are often limited by weak randomization and scarce longitudinal follow-up. Although IVR is feasible and beneficial, evidence remains nascent. Future research should broaden training topics, employ rigorous longitudinal and comparative studies, embed learning theories in design, and evaluate real-world transfer of learned behaviors.