Designing expandable digital learning ecosystems through student-generated immersive learning environments

Abstract

Immersive technologies and student participation have transformed digital education by enabling learners to contribute not only to learning activities but also to the development of digital learning environments. However, existing studies primarily focus on individual gamified applications or immersive learning experiences, while the long-term evolution, reuse, and institutional integration of student-generated environments remain insufficiently explored. This study introduces a three-component framework comprising a Transformation Model, an Algorithmic Extension Layer, and an Expert-Supported Quality Assurance Layer. The framework formalizes the evolution of learner-generated educational artifacts into expandable digital learning ecosystems, formalizes the structural integration and reuse of educational fragments, and provides an expert assessment of educational quality and readiness for institutional integration. The framework was illustrated and assessed using two educational cases: a structured immersive learning ecosystem based on a 3D simulation environment and an open collaborative learning ecosystem implemented through a Minecraft-based virtual campus. Both cases received very high overall expert ratings, while the criterion-level expert ratings indicated complementary assessed strengths in their capacity to support ecosystem development and institutional integration. The proposed framework illustrates a transition from individual immersive applications toward expandable digital learning ecosystems that support continuous learner contributions, institutional reuse, and long-term development. It provides a foundation for future research on scalable and sustainable ecosystem-oriented learning environments in higher education.