Association for Behavior Analysis International

Virtual reality (VR) has the potential to tap into a varied amount of teaching opportunities within limitless environments and settings. If programmed correctly, virtual reality simulations will have the potential to assess and teach a diverse set of behaviors and contingencies, in a safe, controlled and effective manner. Many studies within neighboring fields have demonstrated its effectiveness in assisting individuals with anxiety, phobias and post traumatic stress disorder but the literature is limited in showcasing its use in teaching using basic behavior analytic principles. Behavioral science is primed for the integration of emerging technology into clinical applications and beyond. Topics such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, the internet of things and virtual reality are exemplars of technologies will be addressed. This panel will discuss the use of virtual reality in teaching and assessing within simulated settings and will also describe potential paths for virtual reality in differing contexts and situations.