Exploring the Structure of Proteins and Other Biomolecules with a VR Museum: Lessons in Classroom Integration

Abstract

The three-dimensional nature of macromolecules is often difficult for undergraduate students to grasp. This leads to difficulties in understanding key concepts in Biochemistry, such as protein function and conformational change. Virtual reality (VR) technologies, which can aid students in three-dimensional visualizations, have been shown to increase student motivation, but published reports do not universally agree about whether VR improves student comprehension. Here we present the implementation of a VR experience that was designed to complement existing biochemistry experiments and an analysis of both student engagement with and understanding of the material presented in VR. Results indicate that students enjoyed this interactive, immersive activity and suggest evidence of increased understanding. However, the effectiveness of the VR experience─and effective assessment of such an experience─may depend on a number of factors.