This paper investigates the combined use of music, virtual reality (VR), and the opportunity to be involved in an international choir, in order to improve learning outcomes and cognitive development in young students with disabilities. In collaboration with the Aspoc Association and Politecnico di Milano (Polimi) through the Virtual Prototyping and Augmented Reality Laboratory. We developed an innovative educational program featuring a virtual reality application built in Unity3D, which includes customizable 360° immersive scenes and allows students to select songs for choir participation. The study aims to demonstrate how these elements create a more engaging and inclusive learning environment, fostering both cognitive improvements and social inclusion. Preliminary results show significant advancements in memory, attention, and emotional well-being, suggesting the potential for this approach to enhance learning in students with disabilities.

Authors: Mario Covarrubias Rodriguez, Elena Mapelli, Maria Concetta Carruba, Marta Mondellini, Emma Mencaci

• Date of Conference: 4-6 November 2024
• DOI: 10.20533/LICE.2024.0022
• ISBN: 978-1-913572-74-7
• Conference Location: St Anne’s College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK