Immersive Religion: Using Extended Reality Resources for Teaching the Academic Study of Religion

Traditional methods of teaching religion often fail to capture the sensory and spatial dimensions of religious practices, leaving students with abstract understandings disconnected from lived experiences. This study pilots the use of extended reality resources—immersive 360-degree videos, enhanced video interviews, and virtual tours—as tools for teaching undergraduate students about religious traditions. Through thematic analysis of students’ written reflections, the findings reveal four key outcomes: a deepened understanding of traditions and rituals, an appreciation for the role of sacred spaces, enhanced empathy for practitioners, and a desire for further exploration. Though limited in scope and breadth, these initial results suggest that immersive media can foster both cognitive and emotional engagement, providing students with a more holistic and respectful understanding of religious practices.