Unlocking the Metaverse Potential: Evaluation of Public and Private Higher Educational Institutions in Pakistan on adoption to Futuristic Technologies

Abstract

Metaverse is considered as a modern day virtual reality based technology which has the capability to transform the world through virtual universe creation with limitless possibilities for learning, training, education, business and many more. However its adaptability and integration is yet a big question with respect to Pakistan as a developing world country with lack of high-end technological systems deployment and poor research & development prioritization. The current research aims to explore how far the public as well as private educational universities in the context of second largest city of Pakistan i.e. Lahore are responding to its integration in educational endeavors. Major aspects included in research were understanding of the Metaverse, the potential applications of Metaverse in higher education, the transformation of learning and teaching approaches, and the opportunities for career and professional development as well its challenges. Qualitative approach was used through on-site face to face semi-structured interviews with relevant officials from four universities with focus on Metaverse adaptation in future with diversified thematic analysis. Results showed positive attitude towards adoption with defined and undefined challenges as well as higher need for training, deployment and resource dedication. It was recommended that proper trainings, avenue development, deployment projects and prior research & development be ensured for future transformative adoption to Metaverse.