THE FUTURE OF LEARNING THROUGH AI AND MIXED REALITY: SUSTAINABLE LIVING LABS

Abstract

The 21st century is characterized by rapid digital transformation and the pressing need for sustainable development. Education, traditionally centered on the classroom, is being reshaped by immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), alongside artificial intelligence (AI). These innovations are not only tools for instruction but also catalysts for creating dynamic “living labs,” where learners of all ages can experiment, co-create, and address real-world problems. This paper argues that the integration of these technologies within lifelong learning frameworks aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) heralds a new paradigm of experiential and personalized education. By examining pedagogical, technological, and ethical dimensions, this study highlights how immersive ecosystems can prepare learners for uncertain futures.