Implementation of virtual reality technology for sports education and training: Systematic literature review

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) is a computer-generated environment with scenes and objects that appear natural, immersing the user in their surroundings. Numerous Virtual Reality (VR) experiments have been applied in sports education and training. These can significantly contribute to and improve decision-making, such as prediction. This study aims to determine insights into the current state of virtual reality applications in sports. This exploration would lead to the most effective way to implement virtual reality technologies in sports education and training. A systematic search was performed in the most influential scientific electronic databases (e.g., Google Scholar) between 2010 to 2022. After reviewing past research on the issue, the researcher formulates research questions. We identified 30 related samples out of 995 searched articles that satisfied our inclusion criteria. There is a significant increasing pattern of VR application in sports education and training. In addition, the most popular method to implement VR in sports education and training is using a head-mounted display (HMD) combined with a motion capture system. This research aims to provide effectiveness, benefit, problems, and possible solution for VR implementation in sports education and training. Through this article, we hope future researchers can provide a new approach to VR technology in sports education and training.