Study of Adverse Factors During Training with Virtual Reality Simulator

Abstract

Currently, the dynamic development of information technology contributes to the increasingly widespread application of Virtual Reality (VR) as modern and effective methods and training tools used in the process of self-education and/or training related to understanding the essence of the principles of operation and mastering the tasks of operating even complex systems or technical processes through simulating their actions. A significant argument for the use of virtual reality simulators in training uniformed services is the favorable cost-effect ratio and considerations of trainee safety. However, the use of VR simulators may be accompanied by the possibility of side effects or intensified symptoms of the so-called cybersickness. Bearing this in mind, the purpose of this article is to present the results of preliminary studies of adverse factors occurring during training using a VR simulator. The theoretical foundation for empirical research was provided by the results of a conducted review and analysis of literary content. Among the empirical methods, studies were conducted using a simulator sickness questionnaire and a research trial according to the parallel triangulation strategy scheme, involving the simultaneous use of quantitative and qualitative methods. The results obtained in this way can provide a valuable source of information about factors increasing the risk of adverse symptoms of cybersickness and ways of their mitigation, and can serve for further work on their development and application of VR simulators.