Horizons architecture with virtual reality for complexity environments: Mixed methods

In the field of complexity, new methodologies emerge, such as horizon architecture, which help to focus solutions that can be integrated to foster innovation in university education. Technologies are also opening up opportunities for training, such as virtual and augmented reality. This article aims to answer the question: What innovations do postgraduate students perceive in environments using horizons architecture to integrate virtual reality? In this project’s training experience for students, the horizons architecture strategy was implemented with virtual reality resources and emerging technologies. The present research was conducted with a mixed methodology, using a concurrent triangulation design. The participants were chosen from a sample for non-probability convenience. Three instruments were administered to 99 graduate students in Humanities and Education: i) a semi-structured questionnaire with demographic data and interests in contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ii) a semi-structured questionnaire on students’ perceptions of learning and innovative projects, and iii) a validated Likert-scale questionnaire on elements and types of educational innovation. Virtual and augmented reality supported the distance education modalities and project presentations. The results show that: (a) open and systemic innovation, (b) creation of new products and services, (c) the potential of horizons architecture strategy, (d) motivation boosted by virtual and augmented reality, and (e) critical aspects of integrating virtual and augmented reality (technical and academic). It is concluded that horizons architecture with virtual reality in university education encourages complex reasoning and invites the search for new solutions. The challenge is to train citizens with critical, scientific, systemic, innovative and entrepreneurial thinking, who are also empathetic, cooperative and committed to sustainable development. This study may be valuable to teachers, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers interested in innovative educational environments and technologies, especially those in graduate education.