Virtual Reality

What is virtual reality?

Virtual reality (VR) is a computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional environment that users can interact with physically or seemingly realistically. People use electronic devices like headsets, helmets, or gloves to navigate and operate within the simulation environment. VR experiences are immersive and include true-to-life graphics, audio, and elements, making users feel physically present in the virtual environment.

Some organizations use virtual reality (VR) collaboration platforms to allow users to collaborate across remote locations. These solutions let employees meet in the same virtual space and communicate through speech and text, allowing them to work with their colleagues. 

Types of virtual reality

VR can be categorized into different types depending on the level of immersion, the hardware used, and the overall purpose of the virtual experience. Some common types include:

• Non-immersive VR. Sometimes overlooked as virtual reality, users remain aware of their actual physical environment in non-immersive VR. Users engaging with non-immersive VR typically experience the environment on a computer screen or television without a special headset. Instead, they interact with the environment through limited keyboard and mouse controls. An example of non-immersive VR is video games.

• Semi-immersive VR. This type of VR sits between non-immersive and fully immersive, and it provides a user experience partially based on the virtual environment through large displays and projector systems. An example of semi-immersive VR is a flight simulator for pilots in training. 

• Fully immersive VR. While there’s some debate around whether current technologies are considered fully immersive VR, this type of VR is expected to generate a realistic simulation experience across multiple senses. Users feel immersed entirely present within the virtual environment. 

Essential elements of virtual reality

Four elements comprise the virtual reality experience.

• A virtual environment or world: VR uses computer technologies to create a virtual environment or world for users to visit. The environment creates opportunities for users to engage and interact with in various ways. 

• Immersion in the environment: Users must feel immersed in the virtual environment to experience VR fully. Headsets, special audio, and other equipment helps users grow more deeply absorbed and transported to the virtual world. 

• Sensory feedback: VR attempts to replicate human experiences feedback. For example, a user might wear a headset that transports them to a virtual environment. When they step up and down in real life, it moves their virtual character forward and allows them to walk in the virtual world. 

• Interactivity and engagement: Along with sensory feedback, VR experiences allow users to interact with the virtual world, making it feel more life-like and engaging. 

Benefits of virtual reality

When utilized correctly, virtual reality offers many benefits across various needs and industries. Some of the key benefits of VR include:

• Training and simulation for educational purposes. VR has proven to be an effective educational method in specific industries like aviation. It allows trainees to practice their skills in a controlled environment to prepare them for real-life use cases. 

• Enhanced gaming and entertainment. VR in gaming allows users to place themselves inside a virtual game world as if they are one of the characters. People also use VR as a form of entertainment that lets them temporarily transport themselves elsewhere. 

• Risk-free adventures. With VR capabilities, people can simulate specific adventures and experiences they may not feel comfortable with. For example, an individual afraid of heights and roller coasters can experience what being on a roller coaster feels like. 

• Better accessibility and inclusivity. Virtual reality creates accessible and inclusive experiences for individuals with physical disabilities. They can explore virtual worlds and engage in simulated activities that they wouldn’t be able to in the real world. VR also opens up more possibilities to engage and be social for those with social anxieties and other limitations that prevent them from interacting face-to-face. 

Virtual reality challenges

Like all forms of technology, virtual reality provides many benefits but has its challenges. Users should consider the following before experimenting with VR.

• May cause discomfort and motion sickness: Since VR headsets engage an individual’s senses, the disconnect between movement in the real world and the virtual experience can cause nausea, dizziness, and symptoms associated with motion sickness. The experience might be fun, but it could also cause some painful discomfort for some. 

• High costs: The best-quality VR experiences are expensive and require equipment that may be outside people’s budgets. The potentially high cost of a VR experience can make it inaccessible. 

• Less human contact: People should use VR reasonably to avoid overuse. An addiction to virtual experiences can lead to social isolation and neglect of the natural world, causing potential harm to real-life relationships and connections. 

Virtual reality vs. augmented reality 

Virtual reality and augmented reality (AR) are immersive technologies that differ slightly in their approach and experience. 

Virtual reality is a computer-generated environment that simulates an imaginary world that may or may not be realistic. Users wear equipment like a VR headset that immerses them in the virtual world. 

Using a camera, augmented reality overlays digital content onto the real-world environment to enhance the experience. Users experience AR through smartphones, tablets, and special glasses.

Learn how to use virtual reality in the classroom for an enriched learning experience.