Difficulties in conducting research with the use of virtual reality (VR)

Abstract

Introduction. Virtual reality is a technology which is increasingly more often used notonly by the entertainment industry, but also in education, medicine, trade, and tourism.Conducting research with the use of virtual reality is necessary in order to confi rm or disclaimits effectiveness as a tool in particular uses.The aim. The aim of this paper is to present and analyse the diffi culties which ariseduring research with the use of VR.Methods and materials. The authors have analysed the diffi culties mentioned by researchers,as well as those addressing their own experiences gained during research with theuse of VR.Conclusions. The diffi culties arising during the research testing the use of VR can bedivided into three groups. The fi rst group includes those connected with the research subjects.There are objections related to certain illnesses, what is more, some individuals mayfeel fear of new technologies or lack interest in them. The second group contains the problemsconnected with the features of the equipment. The cost, the space necessary to carryout the research, and the number of assistants required make it diffi cult to conduct researchon a large number of individuals at the same time, and to popularise the use of the equipment.That is why researchers often use one tool only while working with a number ofpeople, which leads to wear and tear of the equipment. There is still a shortage of softwaresolutions dedicated to therapists and educators. Researchers often use software designedfor entertainment. The third group of diffi culties is related to the persons carrying out theresearch. The researchers ought to receive suffi cient training, they may require help transportingthe equipment, and they cannot anticipate the reactions of the particular researchsubjects. When writing the article we have noticed yet another obstacle, which may proveimpossible to overcome in the near future. VR glasses are typically used by a number ofpeople, which may be a threat in the times of an epidemic.