Ocean XR: A Deep Dive Into Extended Reality for Marine Education and Ocean Literacy

Contact with the ocean is key to improving ocean literacy (OL)—the understanding of our influence on the ocean and the ocean’s influence on us. Ocean extended reality (ocean XR) can contribute to marine education and OL by simulating marine environments using augmented, mixed, and virtual reality technologies. To better understand this emerging field, we analyzed 94 experiences revealing insight into the usage and effects of key extended reality features: presence, interactivity, and embodiment. Virtual wildlife was present in over 75% of content, though wildlife interactions were less common (42%) than interactions with the environment (72%). Embodiment was featured in 49% of experiences, and 30% placed users in a scientific role. Most simulations (88%) featured at least one OL principle, with correlations suggesting positive relationships between OL principles and key features. This work represents a first step in understanding how ocean extended reality can benefit marine education and OL and offers suggestions for creating more impactful virtual ocean experiences.