Effects of immersion and interactive strategies on students’ intercultural competence in virtual learning environments

In an increasingly globalized world, developing intercultural competence in higher education is highly valued. While there has been a shift towards remote intercultural learning methods, these approaches often lack authentic and immersive experiences. To address this gap, the present study uses spherical video-based virtual reality (SVVR) to create immersive virtual learning environments enhanced with interactive strategies. Designed to ensure active learner engagement, these strategies facilitate deeper exploration, critical thinking, and effective navigation. This quasi-experimental study examines the impact of SVVR on intercultural competence by engaging eighty university students from China and Indonesia in a 10-week program. Utilizing a blend of quantitative and qualitative approaches, the study assessed the influence of four conditions: (1) VR with interactive strategies, (2) VR without interactive strategies, (3) PC with interactive strategies, and (4) PC without interactive strategies. The findings indicate an improvement in intercultural competence—specifically in knowledge, skills, attitudes, and awareness—achieved through the combination of immersion and interactive strategies. The research highlights the synergistic effect of these elements, showing that integrating high immersion and interactive components bolsters intercultural learning outcomes. The paper concludes with insights for optimizing such virtual learning experiences, emphasizing the role of interactive strategies and device selection.