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Immersive virtual reality (IVR) and Metaverse applications are gaining attention in the educational field, showing potentials in transforming traditional learning methods by supporting active and experiential forms of learning. Our study, conducted within the context of an Italian university course, employs the Extended Expectation-Confirmation Model (EECM) as a theoretical framework to explore the key aspects of students' acceptance and continued intention to use IVR and Metaverse integrated learning environments in educational settings. The EECM, which bridges the gap between pre-adoption expectations and post-adoption experiences, provides a comprehensive perspective for exploring technology adoption in education. Students' attitudes were assessed before and after they completed an elective course offered by the university that delved into IVR and Metaverse applications. During the course, students explored the theoretical and practical applications of these technologies, engaging in a variety of experiences, from immersive relaxation exercises to immersive educational platforms in the emerging Metaverse. Contrary to common assumptions, pre-adoption factors like performance and effort expectancy had limited impact on expectancy confirmation. However, when students' initial expectations matched their experiences, their perceptions of the technology's usefulness, satisfaction, and confidence in its use were positively enhanced, influencing their continued intention to integrate these tools in education.

Purpose of Review: We review the first pilot studies applying metaverse-related technologies in psychiatric patients and discuss the rationale for using this complex federation of technologies to treat mental diseases. Concerning previous virtual-reality applications in medical care, metaverse technologies provide the unique opportunity to define, control, and shape virtual scenarios shared by multi-users to exploit the “synchronized brains” potential exacerbated by social interactions. Recent Findings: The application of an avatar-based sexual therapy program conducted on a metaverse platform has been demonstrated to be more effective concerning traditional sexual coaching for treating female orgasm disorders. Again, a metaverse-based social skills training program has been tested on children with autism spectrum disorders, demonstrating a significant impact on social interaction abilities. Summary: Metaverse-related technologies could enable us to develop new reliable approaches for treating diseases where behavioral symptoms can be addressed using socio-attentive tasks and social-interaction strategies.

With the rapid increase of the aging population in Italy, the number of subjects with cognitive deficits also increases. Two of the most damaged cognitive domains since the first phase of decline are Executive Functions and Spatial Memory. The general aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a novel VR-based mixed training protocol for improving executive functions and spatial memory in patients with cognitive decline. To achieve this objective, the neuropsychological performance of two groups of a subjects with cognitive decline were compared before and at the end of the training period. One group underwent a classic rehabilitation protocol, the other underwent the new VR-based protocol. The results showed an improve in executive functioning in the VR group after the training period

Presence inducing media have recently emerged as a potentially effective way to provide general and specialty mental health services, and they appear poised to enter mainstream clinical delivery. However, to ensure appropriate development and use of these technologies, clinicians must have a clear understanding of the opportunities and challenges they will provide to professional practice. This chapter attempts to outline the current state of clinical research related to the use of presence-inducing technologies, virtual reality in particular. Through presence, virtual reality helps the patient both to confront his/her problems in a meaningful yet controlled and safe setting. Further, it opens the possibility of experiencing his/her life in another, more satisfactory, way. In fact, virtual reality therapists are using presence to provide meaningful experiences which are capable of inducing deep and permanent changes in their patients. Finally, the chapter discusses the possible evolution of presence-inducing media from virtual reality to augmented reality, to interreality.

creativity

Identifying ‘networked flow’ as the key driver of networked creativity, this new volume in the Springer Briefs series deploys concepts from a range of sub-disciplines in psychology to suggest ways of optimizing the innovative potential of creative networks. In their analysis of how to support these networks, the contributing authors apply expertise in experimental, social, cultural and educational psychology. They show how developing a creative network requires the establishment of an optimal group experience in which individual intentions inform and guide collective goals. The volume represents a three-fold achievement. It develops a ground-breaking new perspective on group creativity: the notion of ‘networked flow’ as a bridging concept linking the neuropsychological, psychological and social levels of the creative process. In addition, the authors set out a six-stage model that provides researchers with a methodological framework (also by referring to the social network analysis) for studying the creativity traditionally associated with interpersonal contexts. Finally, the book includes perceptive analysis of the novel possibilities opened up by second-generation internet technologies, particularly in social networking, that seem destined to develop and sustain online creativity. As a wide-ranging exposition of a new direction in theoretical psychology that is laden with exciting possibilities, this volume will inform and inspire professionals, scholars and students alike.

creativity

Identifying ‘networked flow’ as the key driver of networked creativity, this new volume in the Springer Briefs series deploys concepts from a range of sub-disciplines in psychology to suggest ways of optimizing the innovative potential of creative networks. In their analysis of how to support these networks, the contributing authors apply expertise in experimental, social, cultural and educational psychology. They show how developing a creative network requires the establishment of an optimal group experience in which individual intentions inform and guide collective goals. The volume represents a three-fold achievement. It develops a ground-breaking new perspective on group creativity: the notion of ‘networked flow’ as a bridging concept linking the neuropsychological, psychological and social levels of the creative process. In addition, the authors set out a six-stage model that provides researchers with a methodological framework (also by referring to the social network analysis) for studying the creativity traditionally associated with interpersonal contexts. Finally, the book includes perceptive analysis of the novel possibilities opened up by second-generation internet technologies, particularly in social networking, that seem destined to develop and sustain online creativity. As a wide-ranging exposition of a new direction in theoretical psychology that is laden with exciting possibilities, this volume will inform and inspire professionals, scholars and students alike.

Positive Technology is an emerging field that could be defined as the scientific and applied approach to the use of advanced technology for improving the quality of our personal experience. This discipline effectively combines the purposes of Positive Psychology with the enhancements of Information and Communication Technologies to promote individual and social well-being. Here, we suggest that a further advancement for Positive Technology might be offered by a new technological paradigm, namely Interreality. The value of Interreality Paradigm lies in bridging the gap between virtual and real world by integrating different pervasive sensors and computing technologies to create a hybrid, closed-loop empowering experience for the assessment and treatment actually missing in the traditional research and clinical approach of psychological disorders. Interreal-ity Paradigm uses biosensors, activity sensors and mobile devices (PDAs, mobile phones, etc.) to conduct the continuous assessment throughout the virtual and real experiences. It enables tracking of the individuals' general and psychological sta-tus over time in several settings. The information collected during the assessment phase is constantly used to monitor individuals' progress and to precisely calibrate their treatment sessions thanks to a decision support system. Finally, Interreality Paradigm uses advanced simulations (virtual experiences) to transform health guidelines and provision in meaningful and engaging experiences. A recently funded European project "INTERSTRESS – Interreality in the management and treatment of stress-related disorders" will offer the right context to test and tune these ideas.