Assessing the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Technology as part of an Authentic Learning Environment

Abstract

Application of virtual reality (VR) in training and education seems to give excellent promise in providing an alternative environment in situations where it is impossible for students to experience. However, there has been limited research investigating the effectiveness of immersive VR technology as part of an authentic learning environment. This study attempts to create an authentic learning environment by incorporating immersive VR technology as part of the delivery mode, conducted at a large technology-based university in Australia. The aim is to engage learners through the use of a simulated organization that involves real world problems. Learners are exposed to decision making theories from the beginning of the semester which culminates with immersive VR environment where they experienced real life crisis. The findings report that immersive VR environment helped increase students' understanding of decision making