Virtual Reality in Computer Science Education: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) technologies have become more affordable and accessible in recent years. This is opening up new methods and opportunities in the field of digital learning. VR can offer new forms of interactive learning and working, especially for subjects from the STEM (Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) area. In this context we investigate the potential and application of VR for computer science education with a systematic review in this paper. We present a formal literature review on the use of VR technologies in computer science education. We focus on the identification of factors such as learning objectives, technologies used, interaction characteristics, and challenges and advantages of using fully immersive VR for computer science education. CCS CONCEPTS • Human-centered computing → Virtual reality; • Social and professional topics → Computing education programs; Computer science education.

Application of Virtual Reality in Computer Science Education: A Systemic Review Based on Bibliometric and Content Analysis Methods

“…Similarly, Oyelere et al [1] studied VR games in CS education, focusing on developmental features such as the technology, pedagogy, and gaming elements used in such studies. In terms of technology, Oyelere et al [1] finding was in congruence with that of Pirker et al [3], where Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and PC-based applications dominate the technology aspect. Both studies show that mobile-based VR applications for CS education are still growing, with less than 15% of deployment of VR applications on mobile devices.…”

“…This increasing VR application growth in the educational field is evident, as revealed by the literature, including a recent VR study in computer science education [3]. VR technology provides an opportunity to develop a state-of-the-art smart learning environment with a high level of interaction, engagement, and motivation for an enhanced learning experience [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8]. This study refers to computer science (CS) education as the art and science involved in learning and teaching computer science, including computing, algorithmic and computational thinking [9].…”

“…The use of VR in education to support training, teaching, and learning through 3D simulation and visualization of learning content in a virtual presence has grown recently [2]. This increasing VR application growth in the educational field is evident, as revealed by the literature, including a recent VR study in computer science education [3]. VR technology provides an opportunity to develop a state-of-the-art smart learning environment with a high level of interaction, engagement, and motivation for an enhanced learning experience [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8].…”

“…However, there have been only a limited number of such studies focused on computer science education. For example, Pirker et al [3] conducted a systematic literature review of VR in CS education, focusing on the technology used to deploy VR applications for CS education, the learning objectives, and challenges recorded in studies related to VR in CS education. Pirker and colleagues revealed that VR desktop applications using Oculus Rift and HTC Vive dominate the technology currently used to deploy VR in CS education.…”

“…Pirker and colleagues revealed that VR desktop applications using Oculus Rift and HTC Vive dominate the technology currently used to deploy VR in CS education. On the other hand, the majority of studies on VR in CS education focused on cognitive learning with topics such as fundamental components of algorithms and object-oriented programming [3].…”