VR-guided wall mural (VRGWM): An immersive, embodied framework for scalable mural skill development in TVET and community contexts

Abstract

This study presents the VR-Guided Wall Mural (VRGWM) as a practice-based innovation that integrates immersive Virtual Reality (VR) with manual mural execution to address limitations in conventional mural production. Traditional approaches remain highly dependent on artistic expertise and time-intensive processes, limiting accessibility and participation in educational and community contexts. Drawing on embodied cognition, experiential learning, and spatial cognition, this study proposes VRGWM as a structured framework that bridges virtual visualisation and physical execution through an iterative VR–Wall alternating loop. The approach was implemented in real-world mural projects involving students, educators, and community participants. Findings indicate that VRGWM enhances spatial understanding, improves participant confidence, and increases efficiency in mural production, particularly during the base-sketching stage. Importantly, the approach enables non-professional individuals to engage effectively in large-scale mural drawing. This study contributes by positioning VRGWM as a theory-informed and scalable framework aligned with digital transformation and TVET priorities.