Pedagogical Challenges in Using Immersive Technologies for Physical Education: A Review (Cabaran Pedagogi dalam Penggunaan Teknologi Imersif untuk Pendidikan Jasmani: Tinjauan Literatur)

Abstract

The integration of immersive technologies such as VR and AR is transforming the landscape of Physical Education bymaking learning more immersive, interactive, and learner-focused. However, Malaysian PE faces challenges in teacherreadiness, infrastructure, and curriculum alignment. Limited training, unclear frameworks, and device access hinderimplementation. This study explores pedagogical challenges to inform future instructional models and policy. Thisliterature review aims to identify and synthesise the pedagogical challenges faced by PE teachers in implementing VR/AR technologies in Malaysian schools. A comprehensive search was conducted across Scopus, Web of Science, Taylor& Francis, and Google Scholar using Boolean combinations of keywords such as “virtual reality,” “augmented reality,”“physical education,” “pedagogy,” and “Malaysia”. Criteria focused on empirical studies and reviews publishedbetween 2020 and 2025 that addressed VR/AR integration in school-based PE settings. The review highlights fourdominant pedagogical challenges: (i) lack of teacher training and digital competence; (ii) inadequate infrastructureand costly equipment; (iii) restrictive school policies that hinder mobile or immersive technology use; and (iv) cognitiveand physiological concerns, including VR-induced overload and cybersickness. Furthermore, existing literature lacksstructured pedagogical models, teacher-driven frameworks, and localised data, revealing a gap between technologicalpromise and classroom practice. Although VR/AR technologies offer transformative potential for PE in Malaysianschools, widespread adoption is constrained by pedagogical, infrastructural, and policy-related barriers. There is anurgent need for teacher-focused professional development, context-specific pedagogical models, and institutionalsupport to ensure the equitable and sustainable implementation of these initiatives.