Disruption might be a buzzword for others, but for James Hutson—it’s a mission. As Lead XR Disruptor at Lindenwood University, James is shattering conventional educational paradigms with groundbreaking extended reality (XR) solutions
Imagine a classroom without walls, where learning knows no physical bounds. This is the reality James is creating today. With an eye on the future and feet firmly planted in ethical practice, Hutson is redefining the landscape of XR in education. His innovative approach isn’t just changing how we learn—it’s revolutionizing our very concept of knowledge acquisition. His innovative mindset and commitment to blending technology with human-centered design position him as a formidable leader in this transformative field.
Today, as we stand on the brink of an educational revolution, James’ work reminds us that the most exciting frontiers are not just those we explore, but those we dare to create.
We at IMPAAKT got into conversation with him to learn more about his journey, his vision and how his pioneering efforts are forging the future of immersive technology.
Below are the highlights of the interview:
James, what sparked your interest in extended reality (XR), and can you shed some light on your journey that led you to become a lead XR disruptor at Lindenwood University?
My journey toward XR began with a foundation in art history and visual culture. Early in my career, I focused on how traditional media and visual arts intersect with emerging technologies. My academic background initially centered on studio art and art history, fields that are often perceived as disconnected from technology. However, my interest in bridging these domains began to grow as I recognized the potential of digital tools to expand the boundaries of art, creativity, and cultural engagement. By 2016, I had transitioned into administrative roles, particularly focusing on online and graduate education, where I played a significant role in launching several award-winning online programs at Lindenwood University.
In 2019, the opportunity to lead immersive realities (VR/AR) at Lindenwood aligned perfectly with my evolving interests. This role allowed me to harness XR technology as a medium to enhance learning, cultural exploration, and even therapeutic practices. The creation of our XR and Gaming Lab represented a convergence of my experiences in art history, digital technologies, and educational innovation. Over time, this initiative became a campus-wide movement, embedding immersive experiences across disciplines ranging from the humanities to the sciences. As Lead XR Disruptor, I now focus on integrating XR with AI to create adaptive, inclusive, and scalable learning environments that address real-world challenges, all while continuing to explore the transformative potential of technology in art and culture.
Over your two years as Lead XR Disruptor, how has the landscape of XR in education and industry evolved, and what have been the most significant milestones in your journey?
The past two years have seen significant advancements in the XR landscape, both in terms of technological capabilities and their application in education and industry. The shift toward remote and hybrid learning models accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, which catalyzed the adoption of XR as a tool for immersive and engaging educational experiences. As institutions and industries navigated this transition, XR matured from a niche technology to a critical component of digital transformation strategies. We’ve seen a rapid expansion of XR applications across industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment, leading to a growing demand for professionals skilled in XR design and implementation.
At Lindenwood University, our milestones include launching an interdisciplinary curriculum that integrates XR across multiple programs, from art history to health sciences. We’ve also developed partnerships with industry leaders to ensure that our students are prepared for emerging career opportunities in immersive technologies. A key milestone was the formal establishment of the XR and Gaming Lab, which serves as a research hub for serious gaming and human-centered design. Additionally, our lab’s work on human-subject research, focusing on how XR can be used for education and therapeutic applications, has gained national recognition. This evolution has positioned Lindenwood as a leader in XR education and research, driving both academic innovation and practical applications.
How are you integrating XR into the university’s curriculum, and what benefits are you seeing in student engagement and learning outcomes?
Our approach to integrating XR into the curriculum is rooted in interdisciplinary collaboration and experiential learning. We’ve embedded XR into courses ranging from digital humanities and art history to business and healthcare. For example, in art history, students use VR to explore historical sites and engage with artworks in their original contexts, providing a more immersive understanding of cultural heritage. In health sciences, we’ve developed simulations that allow students to practice clinical skills in a risk-free environment, enhancing their confidence and competence.
The benefits of these integrations are clear: students report higher engagement, deeper understanding of complex concepts, and improved learning outcomes. The immersive nature of XR facilitates active learning by allowing students to interact with content in ways that are often not possible in traditional settings. We’ve also seen increased collaboration among students, as XR projects often involve teamwork across different disciplines, fostering a holistic approach to problem-solving. Moreover, the adaptability of XR allows us to personalize learning experiences, ensuring that students with diverse learning styles and needs can access and benefit from the content.
Can you share some of the most innovative XR projects or initiatives you’ve led at Lindenwood University? What makes them unique?
One of our standout projects is the development of a virtual “Museum of the Future,” which reimagines how art and cultural artifacts are displayed and interacted with in a digital age. This initiative leverages AI and XR to create dynamic exhibits that adapt based on user interaction, offering personalized experiences that evolve with each visit. The museum also incorporates neuroaesthetic principles, providing tailored experiences for neurodiverse audiences.
Another notable project involves the application of XR in serious gaming, particularly in developing therapeutic games for mental health interventions. In collaboration with psychology and healthcare departments, our lab has designed immersive environments that help individuals manage anxiety, PTSD, and other conditions through gamified therapeutic techniques. The unique aspect of these projects is the integration of AI-driven adaptability, where the system responds to user behavior in real-time, providing an experience that is both engaging and effective.
Our work in digital humanities also stands out, particularly in the use of XR for reconstructing lost or damaged cultural heritage sites. By combining historical research with cutting-edge visualization technologies, we’re able to provide scholars and the public with access to accurate, immersive reconstructions of historical environments that would otherwise remain inaccessible.
How do you balance your roles as Lead XR Disruptor, Department Head of Art History and Visual Culture, and Editor-in-Chief of an international journal? How do these roles complement each other in your mission to innovate?
Balancing these roles requires a strategic approach to time management and prioritization. The key is that these roles are interconnected, each informing and enhancing the others. As Lead XR Disruptor, I am constantly exploring the intersection of technology and education, which naturally feeds into my work as Department Head of Art History and Visual Culture. The integration of immersive technology into art history allows me to create innovative research and teaching methodologies that push the boundaries of both fields.
My role as Editor-in-Chief of the *International Journal of Emerging and Disruptive Innovation in Education* serves as the intellectual nexus where these initiatives converge. The journal is a platform for exploring cutting-edge research and trends in educational technology, directly influencing the projects we undertake at Lindenwood. By maintaining a focus on cross-disciplinary collaboration and aligning my work with broader academic and industry goals, I can ensure that each role complements the others in driving forward a cohesive mission of innovation.
What are your thoughts on the ethical considerations of using XR in education, particularly in terms of privacy, accessibility, and the digital divide?
Ethical considerations are at the forefront of our work in XR. The immersive nature of these technologies raises significant concerns regarding privacy, particularly in how data is collected, stored, and used. As we integrate XR into learning environments, it is crucial to establish clear guidelines and policies that protect user privacy while still enabling the benefits of data-driven insights.
Accessibility is another critical issue. While XR has the potential to create inclusive learning experiences, there is a risk that it could exacerbate the digital divide if access to necessary equipment is limited. At Lindenwood, we are committed to designing solutions that are adaptable and accessible across a range of devices, ensuring that all students, regardless of socioeconomic background, can benefit from immersive learning.
Additionally, we must address the cognitive and psychological impacts of extended time spent in virtual environments. As we continue to explore these technologies, our research is focused on understanding and mitigating potential negative effects, ensuring that XR is used responsibly and ethically.
Reflecting on your diverse career, what are the most important lessons you’ve learned in your career as an XR disruptor that you’d like to share with others in the field?
One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the importance of interdisciplinary thinking. The most innovative solutions often emerge at the intersection of different fields. By collaborating across disciplines, we can combine diverse perspectives and skill sets to address complex challenges in creative ways. I’ve also learned that adaptability is essential in a rapidly changing technological landscape. Staying informed about emerging trends and being willing to pivot when necessary is critical to remaining relevant and effective.
Another important lesson is the value of ethical leadership. As we push the boundaries of what is possible with XR, we must remain grounded in principles that prioritize inclusivity, accessibility, and the well-being of those who engage with these technologies.
How do you hope to be remembered in this field? What legacy do you wish to leave behind?
I hope to be remembered as someone who not only advanced the field of XR but also ensured that its growth was guided by humanistic values. My goal is to leave a legacy of innovation that remains focused on enhancing human potential, whether through education, cultural preservation, or therapeutic applications. I want to be known for fostering environments where interdisciplinary collaboration thrives, creating spaces where technology serves to connect, empower, and inspire people.
What advice would you give to aspiring XR innovators looking to make a significant impact in education or other industries?
My advice is to cultivate a growth mindset and remain curious. The field of XR is constantly evolving, and those who are adaptable, eager to learn, and open to experimentation will find the most success. It’s also important to build a strong foundation in both the technical and humanistic aspects of the field. Understanding the technology is critical, but so is knowing how to apply it in ways that are ethical, inclusive, and impactful.
Finally, I encourage aspiring innovators to seek out interdisciplinary opportunities. The future of XR lies in the convergence of multiple fields—art, science, technology, and humanities. By embracing a broad range of perspectives, you’ll be better equipped to create solutions that address the complex needs of our increasingly interconnected world.
