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 by
making learning more immersive, interactive, and learner-focused. However, Malaysian PE faces challenges in teacher
readiness, infrastructure, and curriculum alignment. Limited training, unclear frameworks, and device access hinder
implementation. This study explores pedagogical challenges to inform future instructional models and policy. This
literature 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 published
between 2020 and 2025 that addressed VR/AR integration in school-based PE settings. The review highlights four
dominant pedagogical challenges: (i) lack of teacher training and digital competence; (ii) inadequate infrastructure
and costly equipment; (iii) restrictive school policies that hinder mobile or immersive technology use; and (iv) cognitive
and physiological concerns, including VR-induced overload and cybersickness. Furthermore, existing literature lacks
structured pedagogical models, teacher-driven frameworks, and localised data, revealing a gap between technological
promise and classroom practice. Although VR/AR technologies offer transformative potential for PE in Malaysian
schools, widespread adoption is constrained by pedagogical, infrastructural, and policy-related barriers. There is an
urgent need for teacher-focused professional development, context-specific pedagogical models, and institutional
support to ensure the equitable and sustainable implementation of these initiatives.