Sasha Whitley
Papers
1
Total Citations
40
H-Index
1
About
Dr. Sasha Whitley is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of child development and emerging digital technologies, with a primary focus on how virtual and augmented reality environments shape young users’ cognition, behavior, and well-being. Her landmark 2017 paper, “Children and Virtual Reality: Emerging Possibilities and Challenges,” has accumulated over 40 citations and remains a foundational reference in the field. In this work, Whitley critically examined the rapid proliferation of VR headsets—projecting over 200 million units sold by 2020 and a market value exceeding $20 billion—while raising essential questions about developmental appropriateness, safety, and ethical design for children. Her contributions extend beyond critique; she has developed frameworks for age-appropriate VR content and advocated for inclusive design practices that consider diverse cognitive and physical abilities. Whitley’s research has informed policy discussions at major tech companies and educational institutions, bridging the gap between innovation and child-centered ethics. Her ongoing work continues to shape how researchers, developers, and parents understand the promise and pitfalls of immersive media for the next generation.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Children and Virtual Reality: Emerging Possibilities and Challenges40 citations · 2017