Author(s): Arthur Mapanga & Regina Stofile
The incorporation of metaverse technologies into business education transforms educational paradigms and offers immersive learning experiences. However, this innovation also raises ethical concerns that require careful analysis to promote responsible implementation and ethical practices. This study examines key ethical dimensions, explores their impact on educational practices, and proposes recommendations for ethical metaverse integration in the global South. Thematic content analysis was utilised to systematically analyse the literature on metaverse integration in business education, focusing on ethical dimensions. Relevant articles were analysed to extract themes related to the ethical dimensions necessary when implementing a metaverse in business education. The analysis involved categorising and synthesising the findings to uncover insights into the ethical complexities of metaverse integration. The key findings revealed data privacy concerns, emphasising the need for robust safeguards to protect user privacy and ensure data security in metaverse-enabled educational environments. Inclusivity and diversity were identified as critical dimensions that highlight the importance of creating inclusive learning environments that cater to diverse learners. Cultural sensitivity was highlighted as significant, emphasising the need to respect cultural diversity and foster cross- cultural understanding. Furthermore, the ethical dimensions surrounding AI and virtual agents were explored, emphasising the necessity of ethical frameworks to guide responsible conduct and decision-making in metaverse-integrated educational contexts. This study underscores the importance of ethical dimensions in metaverse technology integration in business education. By prioritising ethics, educators and stakeholders can ensure that metaverse integration promotes equity, inclusivity, and ethical integrity in educational settings. The practical insights and recommendations provided in this study facilitate responsible metaverse integration and promote ethical practices in education. This highlights the significance of ethical dimensions in the development and implementation of emerging technologies for enhancing learning experiences and upholding ethical integrity