Metaverse Integration in Higher Education: A Mixed Study on Professors' Perspectives

This article examines the perspective of professors on the use of the metaverse for teaching and learning in higher education. Although this tool can offer benefits to educational settings, it presents various challenges to its effective application. The study employed a mixed methodology, collecting quantitative data through a validated survey and qualitative information through semi-structured interviews with professors. The primary objective was to analyze professors' perspectives on the use of the metaverse for learning activities in higher education. The results of the study highlighted (a) the need for well-designed spaces and experiences in the metaverse, (b) the lack of immersive resources available to use them inside the metaverse, (c) the essential role of professors in adapting and guiding student performance in the metaverse, and (d) the potential of the metaverse for collaborative activities and simulation of real environments. In conclusion, this article presents a detailed evaluation of the metaverse from the perspective of professors in higher education, bringing a wide-open reflection, valuable for those interested in educational innovation, virtual learning, and personalized teaching strategies. © 2024 IEEE.