0.4 Virtual reality  (Page 51/2)

Virtual Reality

Virtual reality (VR) is one of the newest applications lf computer-based technologies. There are actually several levels of virtual reality, from complex, meaning you are completely immersed inside the virtual environment, to augmented, or partially immersed, to desktop level, meaning you are using your computer to look into a virtual “window.”

At the complex level, virtual reality is a computer-generated, three-dimensional environment where the user can operate as an active participant. The user wears a special headpiece that contains a three-dimensional liquid crystal video display and headphones. The user participates

within the three-dimensional world by manipulating a joystick or a special data glove worn on one hand. The data glove may be used to point, handle, and move objects and to directs the user’s movements within the virtual world. Or the environment can be a chamber or room where the images are projected on the walls, ceiling, and floor. The “CAVE” at the University of Illinois was the first such environment where the user stepped inside the chamber to experience a virtual world..

At the augmented level, the virtual world is created inside a simulated setting, such as a flight

simulator. Users interact with this type of virtual reality using real world artifacts such as joysticks or special equipment. This type of technology has been used by the military for many years for training.

Desktop virtual reality (desktop VR) is most commonly found in education. The computer desktop is used to create the setting to view the virtual world without placing users into that environment. They are free to navigate around the virtual setting using standard computer interfaces. Often what is available is a 360-degree view it from any angle and get a perspective that would simulate seeing the actual item or setting.

The essence of virtual reality is the expansion of experiences. Because virtual reality places users into the virtual environment, it provides them an opportunity to interact with that environment in a unique way, giving them the” ultimate” chance to grasp new ideas. For example, students can take a virtual field trip to a city without leaving their classroom.

Advantages

Expansive. It provides students with opportunities to explore places not feasible in the real world (e.g., outer space or inside an active volcano).

Opportunities to explore. Virtual reality allows students to experiment with simulated environment.

Limitations

Complexity. The technology is very complex and does not lend itself to most classroom users, with the exception of desktop VR.