Comparing Learning Outcomes of Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Students Using a VR360 and Virtual Drone System for Thao Indigenous Culture and Environmental Education

Indigenous cultures in Taiwan embody rich ecological knowledge and strong environmental conservation values. However, elementary and secondary education often provides limited exposure to these cultures due to geographic constraints and insufficient instructional resources, relying primarily on textbooks and teacher-centered teaching methods. Such approaches restrict experiential learning, which may diminish students’ motivation and depth of understanding. However, 360-degree virtual reality (VR360) enables immersive simulations of authentic environments, increasing the accessibility of cultural and ecological education through smartphones and low-cost Google Cardboard. In addition, drone technology enhances learning by offering multiple perspectives for environmental exploration and data collection. This study examines the effectiveness of integrating a VR360 and virtual drone system into instruction focused on the ecological context of Sun Moon Lake and Thao Indigenous culture. Learning outcomes for Indigenous and non-Indigenous students were compared in terms of learning effectiveness, motivation, cognitive load, and technology acceptance. Ecological and cultural materials were collected through field investigations and drone photography, enabling students to explore landscapes from a first-person perspective and engage with Thao cultural practices and their relationship with local ecology. The findings indicate that the proposed VR-based system significantly enhances learning experiences and demonstrates strong potential for cultural and ecological education, offering valuable guidance for the design of future immersive instructional strategies and learning materials related to Indigenous cultures.