In virtual reality environments, students can have access to apparatus which in real life is too expensive, too delicate, too big, or too dangerous to keep in the classroom. This can be particularly helpful for students with physical or perceptual disabilities. Multiple or alternative representations. The ability to create and explore from multiple or different perspectives is a major attraction in complex multi-sensory virtual environments. These multiple observational records can be further analyzed together to evaluate models of learning and thinking.
Abstractions become more concrete.
Cognitive scientists point out the ability of VR to make the abstract more concrete and visible by providing symbols not available in the non-symbolic real world. Focus can be given on salient aspects of a situation, so learners don't get lost in complexity. VR advocates also tout examples of the value of VR as a medium for interactive, collaborative, and engaged learning. However, once millions of students are connected, issues of control and the structure of learning will emerge. Virtual environments are also valued as being extremely motivating for learners, especially for those with non-traditional learning styles.