Abstract

Background. Virtual reality (VR) is becoming more and more widespread in various spheres of human life – in science, education, industry, and leisure. In particular, children are increasingly using VR. However, there is an insignificant number of methodological studies on the effects of virtual reality on children. 

The Objective of this paper is to consider virtual reality technologies as a tool of developing a modern child. In accordance with the goal, the tasks were set to analyze the results of the application, the possibilities and limitations of using VR as a tool that mediates the process of mental development. 

Design. The paper considers the qualitative features of Virtual Reality technologies in contrast to other digital technologies. The analysis of the VR impact on children of different ages in terms of finding the limits of VR applicability is given. It is noted that immersion in virtual environments of children of different age groups occurs with varying degrees of intensity, which is first of all determined by cognitive functions development in these age groups. The positive effects of VR application as an educational tool in the digital environment are highlighted. As a result, it was shown that successful immersion of a child in the virtual world and effective immersion means requires the development of adaptation skills to the new form of the surrounding world, where successfulness is possible only when shaping relevant operations and actions.

Results. The analysis of the existing results of the VR research as a means of developing a modern child has revealed a number of significant facts that determine further methodological research in this area. These include a shift in emphasis in the VR studies from consideration of risks and negative consequences towards qualitative positive effects from their application in order to overcome the limitations of using digital technologies that are considered classical.

Conclusion. VR has significant prospects both as a research tool and as a developing tool relevant to the evolving digital space.