The effect of virtual reality on knowledge acquisition and situational interest regarding library orientation in the time of Covid-19

Abstract

This study examines the impact of using virtual reality for library orientation for first-year university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. The application was developed based on the concept of a digital twin of a physical library. To assess our application, we conducted a comparative experiment with a control group (video guide) and an experimental group (VR guide) of students using situational interest questionnaires, namely pre- and post-tests of knowledge in the form of a library orientation questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. The results showed that virtual reality can increase situational interest in the sub-dimensions of “instant enjoyment”, “novelty”, and “challenge”, but not knowledge acquisition in library orientation. In addition, the qualitative data analysis concludes that virtual reality is unsuitable for the main library orientation program for a large group but is suitable as a supporting tool for library orientation.