Virtual Reality in Education

Abstract

Virtual Reality is implemented by a combination of technologies that are used in order to visualize and provide interaction with a virtual environment. These environments often depict three-dimensional space which may be realistic or imaginary, macroscopic or microscopic and based on realistic physical laws of dynamics, or on imaginary dynamics. The multitude of scenarios that VR may be used to depict make it broadly applicable to the many areas in education. A key feature of VR is that it allows multi-sensory interaction with the space being visualized. Here we look at how this combination of multi-sensory visualization and interactivity make VR ideally suited for effective learning and try to explain this effectiveness in terms of the advantages afforded by active learning through experiences. We also consider some of the applications of VR in education and also some of its drawbacks.

Virtual Reality and Its Applications in Education: Survey

“…In case of education purposes, virtual platforms usually simulate the classroom or the laboratory. However, sometimes, they provide a safe environment to test scenarios that would be too difficult or dangerous to perform in real life [37]. In this paper, we propose a VR applications taxonomy based on the learning outcomes and objectives according to three categories [38]: remembering and understanding, using acquired knowledge in typical situation and using acquired knowledge in a challenging situation.…”

“…The majority of modern existing VR solutions are based on HMDs, which provide a total immersion through 3D virtual environment imitating the reality. According to [37], one of the key issues that should be addressed in the very near feature is the lack of visual realism and realism of the dynamics and interaction. It can be concluded that existing techniques used to generate VR graphics and displaying technology are quite limited.…”

“…Realistic VR environments require computationally powerful hardware for rendering, which goes hand in hand with the price. According to [37], high costs of developing or purchasing a VR system is a significant hurdle to overcome. Currently, tools providing high-end VR experiences, such as Oculus Rift or HTC Vive cost approximately $400-600, respectively; they should be supported by computationally powerful PC, which is still a relatively expensive alternative to conventional methods of teaching.…”

“…Human factor and physical side effects are another issues [37]. Recent reports suggested that the use of HMDs may have unwanted physical/physiological side effects such as anxiety, stress, addiction isolation and mood changes [140].…”

VR 3D Education for Vocational Training

“…By using VR and 3D modelling in the process of learning at vocational studies, students are provided numerous opportunities that cannot provide them with a classical form of a lecture. By researching these areas and technologies, it can be concluded that VR and 3D modelling trends are rapidly expanding and affecting all spheres of life [3,4,6]. Virtual reality was primarily used as a technology to improve computer gaming experience, but today it is developing intensively in other directions too.…”