AloeVR: Virtual Reality to Support Socioemotional Regulation for Exceptional Children

This concurrent session showcases how a virtual reality (VR) mindfulness tool, aloeVR, facilitated heightened socioemotional regulation for middle schoolers with learning differences. aloeVR is utilized through a VR headset and features one-on-one breathing and mindfulness simulations followed by related games, delivered by animal instructors in 3D environments. AloeVR will be demonstrated using VR screencasts, and results from a quantitative case study conducted with eleven middle school students with learning differences will be shared. Results show that post exposure to aloeVR as a supplement to counseling practices at school, students in our sample displayed increases in heart rate variability, which is an index of the body’s capacity to cope with stress. Student surveys reporting their ability to regulate their own emotions and social interactions also showed positive change post-VR exposure. Possibilities to pair aloeVR with socioemotional learning curricula and lecture-based classes are discussed.