The Metaverse as an Emerging Technology in Educational Environments: A SWOT Analysis

Abstract

This study aims to determine the strengths and weaknesses of metaverse applications, a technology that can be used in educational environments, through SWOT analysis, and to identify opportunities and threats. To this end, the study group consists of 15 teachers teaching different subjects. Data were obtained through interviews with teachers who volunteered to participate in the research. The data collected through interviews were analysed using the descriptive content analysis method. Based on the research results, the strengths of educational environments conducted with the metaverse were determined to be the concretization of abstract topics, the improvement of student achievement, and the development of students' cognitive and affective abilities. The ability to present visual and three-dimensional content, content development, independence from time and place, and the provision of information flow are among the important opportunities offered by metaverse applications in educational environments. The threats that metaverse applications can pose in educational environments include: negative effects on classroom management, disruption of teaching due to loss of focus on the subject, students becoming dependent on technology and physical and mental health problems arising from negative social influences on students. In this context, it is recommended that metaverse applications be integrated into educational environments in a controlled manner and in line with pedagogical principles.