Vol. 12 No. 10 (2026)
Open Access
Peer Reviewed

The Role of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in Enhancing Conceptual Understanding and Student Engagement in Chemistry Education: A Literature Review

Authors

Azmir Djauhari , Ucia Mahya Dewi , Arlin Maya Sari , Nurul Afni Sinaga

DOI:

10.29303/jppipa.v12i10.15948

Published:

2026-10-02

Downloads

Abstract

This study reviews the effectiveness of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in chemistry education, with a focus on conceptual understanding and student engagement. The study used a literature review approach. Data were collected by reviewing articles on Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual reality (VR). The literatures used in this study is based on secondary data, specifically research articles from scientific journals and conference proceedings. The selected articles were limited to those published between 2025 and 2026. A total of 12 national and international journal articles were analyzed, gathered using the Publish or Perish 8 application and sourced through Google Scholar. The analysis indicates that Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) offer strong potential to improve both understanding and engagement in chemistry learning. The findings reveal that AR and VR significantly enhance students’ understanding of abstract chemistry concepts by providing interactive three-dimensional visualizations of atomic structures, molecular geometry, and chemical processes. These technologies enable students to explore complex phenomena more effectively than conventional methods, resulting in improved learning outcomes and a reduction in misconceptions.

Keywords:

Augmented Reality (AR) Chemistry education Virtual Reality (VR)

References

Agussalim, H. (2025). The Role of Augmented Reality in Supporting Deep Learning within the Merdeka Curriculum: A Systematic Literature Review in Chemistry Education. Arfak Chem: Chemistry Education Journal, 8(2), 772–785. https://doi.org/10.30862/accej.v8i2.1111 DOI: https://doi.org/10.30862/accej.v8i2.1111

Ahmed, S. K., Mohammed, R. A., Nashwan, A. J., Ibrahim, R. H., Abdalla, A. Q., Ameen, B. M. M., & Khdhir, R. M. (2025). Using Thematic Analysis in Qualitative Research. Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health, 6, 100198. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100198 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.glmedi.2025.100198

Akbar, R. B. W., Fadhilah, R., & Hadiarti, D. (2024). Development of Augmented Reality-Based Modules for Chemistry Bonding Materials at Taman Mulia Pontianak High School. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 10(12), 10109–10115. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v10i12.8507 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v10i12.8507

Akçayır, M., & Akçayır, G. (2017). Advantages and Challenges Associated with Augmented Reality for Education: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Educational Research Review, 20, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.edurev.2016.11.002 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.edurev.2016.11.002

Chang, H.-Y., Binali, T., Liang, J.-C., Chiou, G.-L., Cheng, K.-H., Lee, S. W.-Y., & Tsai, C.-C. (2022). Ten Years of Augmented Reality in Education: A Meta-Analysis of (Quasi-) Experimental Studies to Investigate the Impact. Computers & Education, 191, 104641. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2022.104641 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2022.104641

Dalili, S., Yeh, C., & Qorbani, H. S. (2026). Designing for Spatial Understanding: A Virtual Reality Approach to Undergraduate Organic Chemistry. 20th International Technology, Education and Development Conference, 1598. https://doi.org/10.21125/inted.2026.1598 DOI: https://doi.org/10.21125/inted.2026.1598

Damsi, M., & Suyanto, S. (2023). Systematic Literature Review: Multiple-tier Diagnostic Instruments in Measuring Student Chemistry Misconceptions. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 9(5), 8–21. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v9i5.2600 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v9i5.2600

Dani, A., & Zamhari, M. (2025). Developing Interactive Augmented Reality Learning Media to Introduce Chemistry Laboratory Equipment in Senior High School. Journal of Educational Chemistry (JEC), 7(1), 51–64. https://doi.org/10.21580/jec.2025.7.1.21090 DOI: https://doi.org/10.21580/jec.2025.7.1.21090

Dinther, R. V., Putter, L. D., & Pepin, B. (2023). Features of Immersive Virtual Reality to Support Meaningful Chemistry Education. Journal of Chemical Education, 100(4), 1537–1546. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jchemed.2c01069 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jchemed.2c01069

Dunnagan, C. L., Dannenberg, D. A., Cuales, M. P., Earnest, A. D., Gurnsey, R. M., & Gallardo-Williams, M. T. (2020). Production and Evaluation of a Realistic Immersive Virtual Reality Organic Chemistry Laboratory Experience: Infrared Spectroscopy. Journal of Chemical Education, 97(1), 258–262. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jchemed.9b00705 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jchemed.9b00705

Elford, D., Lancaster, S. J., & Jones, G. A. (2022). Exploring the Effect of Augmented Reality on Cognitive Load, Attitude, Spatial Ability, and Stereochemical Perception. Journal of Science Education and Technology, 31(3), 322–339. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10956-022-09957-0 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10956-022-09957-0

Fadhilah, N. F., & Nasution, H. A. (2025). Development of Chemistry E-Modules Based on Augmented Reality Technology on Hydrocarbon Material. Jurnal Inovasi Pembelajaran Kimia, 7(1), 124–133. https://doi.org/10.24114/jipk.v7i1.67921 DOI: https://doi.org/10.24114/jipk.v7i1.67921

Freitas, A., Junior, A. S., Almeida, B., & Souza, C. (2026). Project-Based Learning Applied to the Development of an Augmented Reality Application for Chemistry Teaching. 20th International Technology, Education and Development Conference, 1020. https://doi.org/10.21125/inted.2026.1020 DOI: https://doi.org/10.21125/inted.2026.1020

Ghani, N. S. H. A. (2026). Integrating AugmentedReality in Chemistry Education: The Impact of the Augmented Reality Chemistry Student Investigation (AR-CSI) Module on Content Knowledge and 21st Century Skills. Journal of Science and Mathematics Letters, 14(1), 46. https://doi.org/10.37134/jsml.vol14.1.5.2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.37134/jsml.vol14.1.5.2026

Gough, D., Oliver, S., & Thomas, J. (2017). An Introduction to Systematic Reviews. SAGE Publications Ltd. https://doi.org/10.4135/9781036234942 DOI: https://doi.org/10.4135/9781036234942

Guaya, D., Meneses, M. Á., Jaramillo-Fierro, X., & Valarezo, E. (2023). Augmented Reality: An Emergent Technology for Students’ Learning Motivation for Chemical Engineering Laboratories During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Sustainability, 15(6), 5175. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065175 DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/su15065175

Ibáñez, M.-B., & Delgado-Kloos, C. (2018). Augmented Reality for STEM Learning: A Systematic Review. Computers & Education, 123, 109–123. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2018.05.002 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2018.05.002

Jaber, L. Z., & BouJaoude, S. (2012). A Macro–Micro–Symbolic Teaching to Promote Relational Understanding of Chemical Reactions. International Journal of Science Education, 34(7), 973–998. https://doi.org/10.1080/09500693.2011.569959 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09500693.2011.569959

Jia, M., Zhang, M., Du, Y., Ruan, D., & Liao, T. (2025). Construction of Application Mode of Virtual Reality (VR) Technology in Hazardous Chemistry Experiment Teaching. Education Insights, 2(6), 160–167. https://doi.org/10.70088/qh6pmf60 DOI: https://doi.org/10.70088/qh6pmf60

Kljun, M., Geroimenko, V., & Pucihar, K. Č. (2020). Augmented Reality in Education: Current Status and Advancement of the Field. In V. Geroimenko (Ed.), Augmented Reality in Education (pp. 3–21). Springer International Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-42156-4_1 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-42156-4_1

Krajcik, J., McNeill, K. L., & Reiser, B. J. (2008). Learning‐Goals‐Driven Design Model: Developing Curriculum Materials that Align with National Standards and Incorporate Project‐Based Pedagogy. Science Education, 92(1), 1–32. https://doi.org/10.1002/sce.20240 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/sce.20240

Ll, P., E, V., Cm, W., J, K., & Re, M. (2020). Use of Secondary Data Analyses in Research: Pros and Cons. Journal of Addiction Medicine and Therapeutic Science, 058–060. https://doi.org/10.17352/2455-3484.000039 DOI: https://doi.org/10.17352/2455-3484.000039

Low, D. Y. S., Poh, P. E., & Tang, S. Y. (2022). Assessing the Impact of Augmented Reality Application on Students’ Learning Motivation in Chemical Engineering. Education for Chemical Engineers, 39, 31–43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ece.2022.02.004 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ece.2022.02.004

Merchant, Z., Goetz, E. T., Cifuentes, L., Keeney-Kennicutt, W., & Davis, T. J. (2014). Effectiveness of Virtual Reality-Based Instruction on Students’ Learning Outcomes in K-12 and Higher Education: A Meta-Analysis. Computers & Education, 70, 29–40. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2013.07.033 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2013.07.033

Nahadi, N., Widarti, H. R., Shidiq, A. S., Siswaningsih, W., Nurhadi, A. R., Rahmawati, T., Nais, M. K., Anggraeni, R. D., Rifa, H. A., Chotimah, R. C., Ayuni, A. D., Aphelia, L. C., & Oktaviani, T. (2025). Development of Website-Based Creative Content as Learning Media on Molecular Geometry. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 11(4), 900–908. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v11i4.10116 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v11i4.10116

Neji, H. A., Anari, M. I., Bayim, B. A., Agube, C. C., & Arorim, O. O. (2025). Effects of Virtual and Augmented Reality Teaching Strategies on Students’ Understanding of Chemistry Practical Activities. Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences Journal of Mathematics, and Science Education, 7(2), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.63561/fnas-jmse.v7i2.1084 DOI: https://doi.org/10.63561/fnas-jmse.v7i2.1084

Nguyen, M. D., Nguyen, Q. V., Nguyen, H. K., & Cao, T. V. G. (2026). Exploring Pathways for Integrating Augmented Reality in Chemistry Teaching: Mediating TPACK Framework for Effective Instruction. Journal of Information Technology Education: Research, 25, 13. https://doi.org/10.28945/5741 DOI: https://doi.org/10.28945/5741

Ningrum, S. F., Fitriani, & Kurniasih, D. (2026). Development of Digital Comic Media on Atomic Structure Material for Grade X to Enhance Quality Education. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 12(3), 642–647. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v12i3.12157 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v12i3.12157

Öztürk, O., Kocaman, R., & Kanbach, D. K. (2024). How to Design Bibliometric Research: An Overview and a Framework Proposal. Review of Managerial Science, 18(11), 3333–3361. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11846-024-00738-0 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11846-024-00738-0

Page, M. J., McKenzie, J. E., Bossuyt, P. M., Boutron, I., Hoffmann, T. C., Mulrow, C. D., Shamseer, L., Tetzlaff, J. M., Akl, E. A., Brennan, S. E., Chou, R., Glanville, J., Grimshaw, J. M., Hróbjartsson, A., Lalu, M. M., Li, T., Loder, E. W., Mayo-Wilson, E., McDonald, S., … Moher, D. (2021). The PRISMA 2020 Statement: An Updated Guideline for Reporting Systematic Reviews. BMJ, n71. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.n71 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.n71

Phillips, V., & Barker, E. (2021). Systematic Reviews: Structure, Form and Content. Journal of Perioperative Practice, 31(9), 349–353. https://doi.org/10.1177/1750458921994693 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1750458921994693

Prasetya, F., Fortuna, A., Samala, A. D., Rawas, S., Mystakidis, S., Syahril, S., Waskito, W., Primawati, P., Wulansari, R. E., & Kassymova, G. K. (2024). The Impact of Augmented Reality Learning Experiences Based on the Motivational Design Model: A Meta-Analysis. Social Sciences & Humanities Open, 10, 100926. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssaho.2024.100926 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssaho.2024.100926

Raziana, E., Yamtinah, S., & Djono, D. (2025). Chemvilative: Enhancing Conceptual Understanding in Chemistry Through an Android-Based Virtual Laboratory. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 11(3), 678–686. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v11i3.9885 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v11i3.9885

Rojas-Sánchez, M. A., Palos-Sánchez, P. R., & Folgado-Fernández, J. A. (2023). Systematic Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis on Virtual Reality and Education. Education and Information Technologies, 28(1), 155–192. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-022-11167-5 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-022-11167-5

Sa’adi, P., Misbah, M., Arlinda, R., Harto, M., & Muhammad, N. (2024). Bibliometric Analysis: Augmented Reality in Science Education Research Trends. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 10(1), 12–24. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v10i1.6547 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v10i1.6547

Saman, F. I., Shahbudin, F. E., & Rusmizi, M. S. (2026). Enhancing Secondary-Level Polymer Chemistry Learning with Gamified Augmented Reality: Development and Evaluation of Gameful Experience and Usability. 2026 International Conference on Cognitive Systems and Computer Interaction (ICoSCI), 1–5. https://doi.org/10.1109/ICoSCI66700.2026.11447709 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1109/ICoSCI66700.2026.11447709

Sari, D. R., Yamtinah, S., Ariani, S. R. D., Saputro, S., Vh, E. S., & Shidiq, A. S. (2022). Augmented Reality Media Validity based on Tetrahedral Chemical Representation with Aiken Validation Index. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 8(6), 3139–3145. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v8i6.2333 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v8i6.2333

Shertayeva, N., Shagraуеva, B., Zhorabekova, A., Amirbekova, E., Kossauova, A., & Shertayev, Y. (2026). Methods of Utilizing Visualization and VR/AR Technologies in the Development of Chemistry Projects for 8th-Grade Students. Journal of Technology and Science Education, 16(1), 233. https://doi.org/10.3926/jotse.3454 DOI: https://doi.org/10.3926/jotse.3454

Shiddiqi, M. H. A., Arthamena, V. D., Ayyubi, M., Manarisip, A. J., & Aznam, N. (2024). Systematic Literature Review: Analysis of Misconception Problems and Diagnostic Instruments for Learning Chemistry. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 10(4), 168–179. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v10i4.5189 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v10i4.5189

Siddaway, A. P., Wood, A. M., & Hedges, L. V. (2019). How to Do a Systematic Review: A Best Practice Guide for Conducting and Reporting Narrative Reviews, Meta-Analyses, and Meta-Syntheses. Annual Review of Psychology, 70(1), 747–770. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-psych-010418-102803 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-psych-010418-102803

Silva, M., Bermúdez, K., & Caro, K. (2023). Effect of an Augmented Reality App on Academic Achievement, Motivation, and Technology Acceptance of University Students of a Chemistry Course. Computers & Education: X Reality, 2, 100022. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cexr.2023.100022 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cexr.2023.100022

Snyder, H. (2019). Literature Review as a Research Methodology: An Overview and Guidelines. Journal of Business Research, 104, 333–339. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2019.07.039 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2019.07.039

Tania, A. P., & Sukarmin, S. (2025). Augmented Reality-Based Virtual Laboratory Application as Chemistry Learning Media for Acid-Base Titration Material. Jurnal Eduscience (JES), 12(5). https://doi.org/10.36987/jes.v12i5.7641 DOI: https://doi.org/10.36987/jes.v12i5.7641

Trinova, Z., & Parni, P. (2026). The Integration of Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Gamification in Developing Interactive Simulations for the Visualisation of Abstract Concepts in Science Education. Indonesian Journal of Education (INJOE), 5(2), 404-416. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19494679

Whatoni, A. S., & Sutrisno, H. (2022). Development of A Learning Module Supported by Augmented Reality on Chemical Bonding Material to Improve Interest and Motivation of Students Learning for Senior High School. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 8(4), 2210–2218. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v8i4.2057 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v8i4.2057

Wong, C. H. S., Tsang, K. C. K., & Chiu, W.-K. (2021). Using Augmented Reality as a Powerful and Innovative Technology to Increase Enthusiasm and Enhance Student Learning in Higher Education Chemistry Courses. Journal of Chemical Education, 98(11), 3476–3485. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jchemed.0c01029 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jchemed.0c01029

Wu, H., Krajcik, J. S., & Soloway, E. (2001). Promoting Understanding of Chemical Representations: Students’ Use of a Visualization Tool in the Classroom. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 38(7), 821–842. https://doi.org/10.1002/tea.1033 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/tea.1033

Xiao, Y., & Watson, M. (2019). Guidance on Conducting a Systematic Literature Review. Journal of Planning Education and Research, 39(1), 93–112. https://doi.org/10.1177/0739456X17723971 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0739456X17723971

Yamtinah, S., Vh, E. S., Saputro, S., Ariani, S. R. D., Shidiq, A. S., Sari, D. R., & Ilyasa, D. G. (2023). Augmented Reality Learning Media Based on Tetrahedral Chemical Representation: How Effective in Learning Process? Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, 19(8), em2313. https://doi.org/10.29333/ejmste/13436 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29333/ejmste/13436

Yovanie, F. (2024). Learning Chemical Bonds in Terms of Identifying Difficulties, Misconceptions, Learning Media, and Learning Models: A Systematic Literature Review. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 10(6), 292–303. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v10i6.6823 DOI: https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v10i6.6823

Zhao, X., Ren, Y., & Cheah, K. S. L. (2023). Leading Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in Education: Bibliometric and Content Analysis from the Web of Science (2018–2022). Sage Open, 13(3), 21582440231190821. https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440231190821 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440231190821

Author Biographies

Azmir Djauhari, SMAN 1 Lhokseumawe

Author Origin : Indonesia

Ucia Mahya Dewi, Universitas Malikussaleh, Lhokseumawe

Author Origin : Indonesia

Arlin Maya Sari, Universitas Malikussaleh, Lhokseumawe

Author Origin : Indonesia

Nurul Afni Sinaga, Universitas Malikussaleh, Lhokseumawe

Author Origin : Indonesia

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

How to Cite

Djauhari, A., Dewi, U. M., Sari, A. M., & Sinaga, N. A. (2026). The Role of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in Enhancing Conceptual Understanding and Student Engagement in Chemistry Education: A Literature Review. Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan IPA, 12(10), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.29303/jppipa.v12i10.15948