• Journal of Internet of Things and Convergence
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• v.10 no.5
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• pp.95-103
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• 2024

The metaverse is a 3D virtual space where users interact with each other using avatars, merging the real and virtual worlds. While the metaverse is currently being integrated into various fields such as education, work, and entertainment, there are few examples of its application within a Christian context. This study aims to the first, summarize the current state of the metaverse both domestically and internationally, and to categorize existing Christian-oriented metaverse initiatives. The second is to examine theological perspectives on the metaverse, considering both negative and positive viewpoints, and propose a new theological framework. Research Results indicate that the utilization of the metaverse within Christian churches is minimal. Negative perspectives on the metaverse include: addiction, confusion stemming from the use of avatars, blurring the lines between the virtual and real worlds, and the risk of the metaverse replacing the church. Positive perspectives highlight its potential for missions, exploring new frontiers, and educational applications.

• Journal of Christian Education in Korea
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• v.76
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• pp.173-192
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• 2023

Purpose of study: The purpose of this study is to suggest the direction of Christian self-identity while paying attention to the metaverse era. It suggests the direction of education that forms a Christian self-identity based on the problems of identity crisis that may arise due to the problem of de-realization while accepting the situation of the metaverse that has emerged due to the digital revolution. Research content and method: Focusing on the discussion of metaverse and de-realization, this paper suggests the importance of Christian self-identity and the direction of education. For this purpose, four tasks of practical theology were carried out based on Richard Osmer's consensus model. As the desciptive-empirical task was carried out, the opportunities and risks of the metaverse were brought up. Through the interpretive task, the problem of metaverse and de-realization was presented. The normative task emphasized the importance of Christian self-identity, and the pragmatic task proposed an education oriented towards Christian self-identity. Conclusions and Suggestions: It is important for education in the metaverse era to form a sense of Christian self-identity. The purpose of education is the formation of Christian's self-identity, and the content is to build the Christian relationality self, equality self, and openness self. The teaching method is interactive teaching, and the teacher and learner can be presented as an encounter between interpreters. The environment is any area of interpreted life, and evaluation can manifest itself in Christian life as disciples and citizens. The suggestion is to suggest compedency education methods for acquiring Christian self-identity while considering various generations.