Abstract
This exploratory study examines young people's perceptions of metaverse and its potential: how they understand the concept, the benefits and risks they associate with it, and their thoughts on how metaverse will shape the present and the future. The data was collected through interviews with bachelor’s students as part of a technology innovation course, including a metaverse experiment. Thematic analysis shows young people emphasize social aspects, including interaction and connection with real people. They see metaverse impacting the future of work and discuss education and learning alongside leisure activities. The biggest concerns revolve around information security and safety. We highlight the importance of educational and academic discussions around the limitations and possibilities of metaverse and the importance of inviting the young generation into such discussions.
Paper Type
Full Paper
DOI
10.62036/ISD.2025.85
“Breaking the boundaries of nature” - Students’ Perceptions of Metaverse Shaping Digital Future
This exploratory study examines young people's perceptions of metaverse and its potential: how they understand the concept, the benefits and risks they associate with it, and their thoughts on how metaverse will shape the present and the future. The data was collected through interviews with bachelor’s students as part of a technology innovation course, including a metaverse experiment. Thematic analysis shows young people emphasize social aspects, including interaction and connection with real people. They see metaverse impacting the future of work and discuss education and learning alongside leisure activities. The biggest concerns revolve around information security and safety. We highlight the importance of educational and academic discussions around the limitations and possibilities of metaverse and the importance of inviting the young generation into such discussions.
Recommended Citation
Tikkanen, R., Iivari, N., Paajala, I., Mattila, J., Holappa, J., Poikonen, F. & Jalli, S. (2025). “Breaking the boundaries of nature” - Students’ Perceptions of Metaverse Shaping Digital FutureIn I. Luković, S. Bjeladinović, B. Delibašić, D. Barać, N. Iivari, E. Insfran, M. Lang, H. Linger, & C. Schneider (Eds.), Empowering the Interdisciplinary Role of ISD in Addressing Contemporary Issues in Digital Transformation: How Data Science and Generative AI Contributes to ISD (ISD2025 Proceedings). Belgrade, Serbia: University of Gdańsk, Department of Business Informatics & University of Belgrade, Faculty of Organizational Sciences. ISBN: 978-83-972632-1-5. https://doi.org/10.62036/ISD.2025.85