Designing extended reality learning scenarios with generative artificial intelligence without losing the learning

Description

This presentation introduces the Prompt to Practice Extended Reality Learning Design Framework, a pedagogy-led approach for using generative artificial intelligence and vibe coding to design extended reality learning scenarios without outsourcing educator judgement. The presentation responds to current debates about cognitive offloading and effective GenAI practice by shifting attention from student use of GenAI to educator use at the point of learning design. It argues that faster scenario generation does not guarantee better learning, particularly in immersive simulation contexts where visual fidelity can be mistaken for educational quality.

The framework begins with the learning problem, uses structured prompting to externalise scenario logic, translates that logic across XR platforms, and evaluates learner judgement through design-based research cycles. It emphasises the importance of authentic roles, situated judgement, cue recognition, decision-making, debriefing, evidence capture and iterative redesign. A construction safety pre-placement scenario is used to demonstrate how GenAI can support the development of decision architecture, facilitator prompts and evidence artefacts while preserving educator validation throughout the process.

The contribution is a practical and research-informed model for educators, learning designers and technical teams seeking to use GenAI in XR learning design in ways that make pedagogy visible, auditable and transferable.

Keywords
Generative artificial intelligence; extended reality; XR learning; vibe coding; immersive simulation; cognitive offloading; learning design; situated judgement; design-based research; higher education

Research significance / contribution
The presentation contributes to scholarship and practice by reframing GenAI as an auditable learning design partner rather than a content generation shortcut. It provides a structured method for designing XR learning scenarios that foregrounds educator judgement, evidence of learner reasoning and iterative refinement through design-based research. The work is relevant to higher education learning design, immersive simulation, educational technology, GenAI-supported pedagogy and professional practice education.

Period	3 Jun 2026
Event title	Symposia on Higher Education Research Informed Practice: Cognitive Offloading or Effective Practice? Exploring the Future of Learning with GenAI
Event type	Conference
Location	Melbourne, Australia, VictoriaShow on map
Degree of Recognition	National