2026 Immersive Learning Research Network (iLRN) Conference CFP

Call for Proposals: 12th Immersive Learning Research Network (iLRN2026) Conference

Theme: "From Plato’s Cave to Open Immersive Societies: Transforming Learning and Knowledge"

• In-person (Athens, Greece; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens) Conference Dates: June 27-30, 2026

• Online (hosted by iLRN geographic chapters’ respective time-zones) Conference Dates: June 28-30, 2026

Conference website: https://immersivelrn.org/ilrn2026/

The Immersive Learning Research Network (iLRN) is pleased to announce the Call for proposals for its 2026 conference, centered around the theme "From Plato’s Cave to Open Immersive Societies: Transforming Learning and Knowledge".

The concept of "Open Immersive Societies" highlights the transformative potential of cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) in reshaping how knowledge is shared, acquired, and applied in an interconnected world. These immersive tools enable inclusive and interactive learning experiences, fostering innovation in education and knowledge-sharing.

iLRN2026 invites researchers, educators, developers, practitioners, and industry leaders to explore the transformative potential of immersive environments and technologies in learning and knowledge creation. We welcome submissions that engage with the innovative use of immersive learning environments, tools, and methods that support society in various educational contexts.

As the professional association advancing the quality of immersive learning to benefit humanity and our world, iLRN is especially interested in works that amplify and extend this mission.

In an era of rapid technological evolution, our engagement with the world is increasingly mediated by diverse communication modes and knowledge representation. Immersive learning environments, for instance, encompassing virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, and other interactive technologies—offer unprecedented opportunities to transform learning. The 2026 iLRN conference aims to comprehensively explore these opportunities, fostering discussions and sharing insights on how immersive environments can foster knowledge acquisition and contribute to a more equitable and informed society.

TOPIC AREAS

iLRN welcomes all submissions on the topic of learning and instruction with immersion as a focus, for instance with technology like VR, AR, XR, games or 360° videos. We encourage submissions that address, but are not limited to, the following topics:

• Immersive digital humanities

• Shaping the Immersive Learning discipline & community of practice

• Designing Open Immersive Societies: Ethics, Accessibility, and Inclusion

• Innovations in Immersive Technologies for Knowledge Transformation

• From Plato’s Cave to Participatory Learning: Philosophical and Pedagogical Perspectives

• Immersive Learning for Social Impact and Sustainability

• XR Epistemology

• Evidence-based practices in immersive learning

• The Ethics of Immersive Learning

• Neurophysiological measures in immersive learning

• Generative AI & XR

• Cognitive, affective, and psychomotor immersive learning

• Design and implementation of tools for immersive learning

• Cross-cultural and inclusive approaches to immersive learning

• Case studies and best practices in immersive learning

IMPORTANT DATES

• Special Tracks Proposal Submission Deadline: July 31, 2025

Academic submissions

• Submission Deadline: October 1, 2025

• Notification of Acceptance: December 15, 2025

• Camera-Ready Submissions: February 1, 2026

• Academic Author Registration Deadline: February 15, 2026