EDUCAUSE Symposium | Immersive and Experiential Learning in Online Environments: August 2026

August 10, and 12, 2026 | 12:00 noon–3:30 p.m. ET
Online

Event Description

Immersive and experiential online environments can be transformative spaces for teaching, learning, and student engagement. From virtual and augmented reality to interactive 3D simulations and extended reality (XR) ecosystems, these approaches create powerful opportunities to deepen understanding and enhance student readiness for complex, real-world challenges. These approaches enable students to experience concepts, problems, and environments that are difficult or impossible to access through traditional instruction alone. They offer dynamic avenues for exploration, skills practice, and scenario-based learning that can deepen engagement and support higher-order thinking.

This symposium brings together faculty innovators, instructional designers, and educational technologists to examine how immersive and experiential online environments are being implemented across higher education. Come join your EDUCAUSE community for the virtual Immersive and Experiential Learning in Online Environments Symposium. Insightful presentations, small-group discussions, and activities will be the foundation of this learning experience.

In this symposium, we will:

  • Frame the landscape of immersive and experiential learning in higher education, drawing on current trends, research insights, and examples of innovation.
  • Highlight design principles and pedagogical best practices that center learner experience, accessibility, and assessment alignment.
  • Showcase practical approaches to evaluating impact, integrating immersive practices into curricula, and advancing institutional capacity for sustainable adoption.

Symposium Highlights

  • icon: lightbulb with a brain in it

    Gain Valuable Insights from Engaging Sessions Designed for Practical Application

  • icon: world with three silhouettes connected around it

    Connect with Your Higher Ed Teaching and Learning Community

  • icon: clipboard with game plan

    Be Inspired to Act with Strategies You Can Apply on Your Campus

Teaching and Learning Symposium Program Committee

The Teaching and Learning Symposium is informed, planned, and organized by an engaged, passionate, and experienced team of higher education teaching and learning professionals. Thank you to the program committee!