# Extended Reality in Applied Sciences Education: A Systematic Review
## 4 Discussion
### Evaluating Short-Term Gains and Long-Term Retention: XR Technologies' Impact on Learning Outcomes  
The results presented in Figure 6 demonstrate that the application of XR technologies in education significantly enhances various dimensions of learning outcomes. The immersive and interactive features of XR technologies effectively engage students, increasing their focus and motivation. XR technologies can simulate realistic or complex experimental environments, helping students intuitively understand abstract concepts such as surgical procedures, chemical experiment processes, or engineering design operations. This enhances knowledge acquisition and practical skills, further optimizing the overall learning experience [46; 49]. Moreover, the use of XR technologies reduces learning frustration and boosts students' confidence [24]. Immersive learning environments allow students to practice and perform tasks repeatedly in a safe virtual space, avoiding the risks or high costs of real-world operations. For example, in applied natural sciences, VR technology facilitates the learning and application of rare metal materials, reducing experimental time and equipment costs while improving students' operational proficiency and learning efficiency [5]. These applications also significantly improve course engagement and learning satisfaction, particularly in skill-based training courses and complex applied sciences disciplines. XR technologies effectively reduce cognitive load, enabling students to achieve learning objectives more efficiently [48]. The study also highlights the potential of MR technologies to enhance students' knowledge acquisition and learning experience, while simultaneously boosting confidence and promoting self-directed learning. MR, as a mixed reality technology, combines real-world interactivity with the immersion of virtual content, creating opportunities for students to engage in autonomous learning [65]. The study reveals distinct differences between the short-term and long-term learning outcomes of XR technologies. Short-term outcomes, such as learning efficiency, satisfaction, and knowledge acquisition, often manifest after single or limited use. Among the reviewed literature, 41% involved single-session experimental courses, indicating that most studies focus on short-term effects. Students often find the immersive and interactive features of XR technologies highly engaging during initial use, which enhances motivation and focus compared to traditional teaching methods. In disciplines like chemistry, where experimental processes may involve long wait times or safety risks, XR technologies simulate experimental environments, reducing risks and wait times while improving learning efficiency and hands-on experiences [11; 24; 52]. However, as noted by [PERSON] and [PERSON] (2021), the acceptance of VR technology may decline with repeated use, potentially due to initially high expectations and relatively simple instructional designs, which can negatively impact learning experiences and motivation [37]. Other studies suggest that the novelty of XR technologies may initially enhance the sense of presence, but this effect diminishes over time, especially if instructional content lacks adaptability, leading to reduced learning outcomes in mid-term applications [70]. These findings align with the results of this study. In contrast, long-term outcomes, such as increased participation, learning confidence, and memory retention, require sustained use or repeated applications to gradually emerge. Previous studies employing a gradual integration of XR technologies into curriculum design have demonstrated that step-by-step guidance helps students systematically construct knowledge structures. This approach prevents students from relying solely on rote memorization, instead fostering deeper engagement with course content [19; 21]. In scenarios involving semester-long or high-frequency applications, students achieve greater absorption of learning content and maintain consistent course engagement.