Study Overview

Extended reality (XR) is transforming fields including technology, education, healthcare, training, media production, and research. Yet relatively little empirical research has examined how women experience participation in this emerging professional space.

This mixed-methods study explores how women working in or adjacent to XR describe their professional pathways, including the work they perform, the skills they develop, the opportunities they encounter, the barriers they navigate, and the role of professional communities in shaping their careers.

Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this research is to better understand women’s experiences within XR ecosystems by examining:

• Professional roles and career pathways

• Technical, creative, emotional, and organizational forms of labor

• Skills and knowledge valued within XR work

• Experiences of workplace support, exclusion, and barriers

• The role of XR communities in creating access, visibility, and professional opportunities

Research Design

This study uses a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative survey data with qualitative interviews.

Online Survey

Participants complete a survey examining:

• Professional background and XR involvement

• Workplace experiences

• Perceived career barriers

• Sense of professional community

• Skills and advancement opportunities

Semi-Structured Interviews

Survey participants may optionally participate in a follow-up interview exploring:

• Career entry pathways

• Professional roles and responsibilities

• Skill expectations

• Experiences of support and challenge

• Community participation and professional development

All study activities are conducted remotely.

Participants

Eligible participants are women age 18 or older who currently work in or adjacent to XR in professional, freelance, contract, volunteer, or independent capacities.

Participants may work in areas such as:

• XR development

• Design

• Research

• Education

• Training

• Media production

• Consulting

• Community leadership

Current Status

Data collection underway

Target enrollment:

• Approximately 40 survey participants

• Approximately 15–20 interview participants

Researcher

Sarah A. Barker, Ph.D.
Media Psychology Researcher

Research interests include:

• Extended reality and human experience

• Emerging media technologies

• Mindfulness and embodied experience

• Technology-mediated learning and communities

Research Materials