• Kuo, H. J., Newbutt, N., George, S., & Laird, M. (2025). Using virtual reality mediation in a workplace setting for employees with disabilities: A pilot study. Computers & Education: X Reality, 6, 100093. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cexr.2025.100093

Abstract

Acknowledging the importance of creating inclusive environments for a diverse workforce, employers are exploring innovative approaches to address the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. One such innovation is the integration of virtual reality (VR) meditation practices. VR meditation offers a promising avenue to enhance the well-being of individuals with disabilities in the workplace by providing an immersive method to manage stress, enhance focus, and foster relaxation. This pilot study included 23 participants with various disabilities who engaged in daily five-minute VR-guided meditation sessions. Results demonstrated the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of the intervention. Participants reported positive experiences, including increased job satisfaction, work engagement, quality of life, and mindfulness. Statistically significant improvements were observed in work engagement aspects, particularly in vigor and dedication. Participants also share some suggestions for future VR meditation implementations.

Findings

• Feasibility and Safety: The study found that using VR-guided meditation in the workplace is both safe and feasible for employees with disabilities. The System Usability Scale (SUS) results supported this, with a mean score of 85.00, which is above the feasibility threshold of 68 points.
• Technology Acceptance: Participants showed a positive acceptance of the VR technology, as measured by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). They rated perceived usefulness and ease of use above the neutral point, indicating satisfaction with the intervention.
• Work Engagement: The intervention showed promising effects on work engagement, with significant improvements in vigor and dedication, which are components of work engagement. These results suggest that VR-guided meditation can help employees become more energetic, resilient, and committed to their work.
• Preliminary Efficacy: Although there were no statistical differences in job satisfaction or overall quality of life, the study suggested that the short duration might have limited the ability to observe these effects. Longer-term studies might be needed to capture the full impact on job satisfaction and quality of life (see figure below).
• Limitations: The study's limitations include a small and homogenous sample size of 23 participants, all from a specific vocational rehabilitation agency, which may not represent the broader population of individuals with disabilities. This limits the generalizability of the findings. Additionally, self-selection bias might have influenced the results, as participants may have had a pre-existing interest in meditation or VR technology.
• Participant Feedback: Participants provided feedback suggesting improvements, such as longer sessions and more interactive elements in the VR environment. These suggestions highlight areas for enhancement in future implementations of VR meditation.

Overall, the study indicates that VR-guided meditation is a feasible and potentially effective tool for enhancing work engagement among employees with disabilities, though further research with larger and more diverse samples is recommended to validate these findings.