Virtual and immersive environments have the potential to transform social interaction by creating new ways to communicate, learn, work, and collaborate online. As these technologies evolve, they raise a range of ethical, societal, environmental, and technological questions that require critical reflection. In particular, how can immersive environments be designed to be accessible, inclusive, and sustainable for diverse user groups? What role can artificial intelligence play in shaping user experiences, participation, and accessibility within these environments?
These questions form the basis of this panel, which aims to explore user-centred design and user participation in virtual and immersive environments, with a specific focus on the integration of AI-driven solutions.
To address these issues, the panel will examine key themes including, but not limited to, the following:
- How will virtual and immersive environments evolve and impact society? What are their implications across sectors such as education, healthcare, cultural heritage, and tourism?
- How can user-centred and human-centred design be supported through AI technologies in immersive environments? What challenges and opportunities arise for accessibility, inclusion, and personalization?
- What new forms of user participation, agency, and representation emerge in immersive environments, and how can AI systems support or hinder inclusive participation and service delivery?
- How can AI-based tools (e.g. adaptive interfaces, intelligent avatars, automated accessibility services) enhance usability and accessibility in immersive experiences?
- What are the opportunities and challenges related to standardisation and regulation, including fair access, data protection, security, liability, intellectual property, and digital rights in AI-driven immersive environments?
- How can immersive environments be developed in an environmentally sustainable way, and what role can AI play in reducing energy consumption and carbon footprints?
- What ethical challenges arise from the use of AI in immersive environments, particularly concerning transparency, bias, user autonomy, and trust?
Acknowledgement: This session is organised in the frame of InclusiVRity (2024-1-ES01-KA220-SCH-000246239), Alfie (101177912) and ClearClimate (101131220) projects, co-funded by the European Commission, and Xarxa AccessCat (2025XARDI00001)
Chairs
Estella Oncins, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Sarah McDonagh, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Iris Serrat-Roozen, Universidad de Valencia