Time Out of Mind: Investigating the Technical and Ethical Impacts of Virtual Reality Tools in Archaeological Studies

ABSTRACT Modern virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) tools possess advanced capabilities that are reshaping archaeological education for public audiences in venues such as museums and schools. Research is needed to determine how these applications modify public perception and interaction with history and cultural heritage. This paper examines the perceptions of academic archaeologists regarding the integration of VR tools into archaeology education. We conducted semi‐structured interviews with six archaeologists who either teach archaeology in a university or museum setting, or who work with archaeological materials in the field. We identified key concerns and perceived benefits related to VR integration in these settings. This preliminary assessment highlights areas of consensus and divergence among archaeology professionals and suggests areas for future research into the evolving role of VR tools in archaeological studies.