Jeremy Bailenson

Talk Title: What VR is good for (and what it is not)

Virtual Reality (VR) is more than just a technological novelty—it is a powerful tool that can transform education, social interaction, and human empathy. Drawing from decades of research, I will discuss how VR can provide experiences that are otherwise impossible, dangerous, or expensive, making it an unparalleled medium for learning and training. However, with great potential comes responsibility; VR also presents risks related to privacy, psychological effects, and ethical use. In this talk, I will explore both the promise and the pitfalls of VR, illustrating how we can harness its benefits while mitigating its challenges.