Application of Immersive Virtual Reality in the Training of Future Teachers: Scope and Challenges

Introduction: The integration of Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) into teacher education is a significant innovation that can enhance the learning and practical training of future teachers. IVR enables highly interactive, immersive experiences in simulated educational environments where student teachers confront realistic classroom challenges. The objective was to synthesize how IVR is implemented in the training of future teachers and its level of effectiveness, in order to develop recommendations for practice and identify potential barriers to implementation. Method: A systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA model. A total of 1677 articles published in the Web of Science, Scopus, and SciELO databases were reviewed between 2021 and 2025, with 13 articles selected for analysis. Results: The reviewed articles highlight Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) as a virtual tool that facilitates the training of future teachers. Among its most common applications are the use of virtual and augmented reality for conflict resolution, classroom management, and teacher adaptation. However, its implementation is limited by access to equipment, scenario development, and integration into university institutions. Conclusions: There is converging evidence that supports the strengths of using IVR as an emerging technology in teacher training, offering facilitating elements for the development of pedagogical competencies through the simulation of practical situations in a safe environment. Thus, this review summarizes recommendations for practice and warnings about implementation barriers, identifying the most potential uses and proposing actionable steps for its phased adoption in initial teacher training.