The effectiveness of a VR-based mobile learning system for university students to learn geological knowledge

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study developed a VR-based mobile learning system to simulate the natural environment of a geopark for university students to learn geological knowledge. This learning method used a Google cardboard equipped with smartphones, where students can watch stereoscopic scenes and experience virtual environments as if visiting the geopark. In order to evaluate the learning effectiveness of the proposed system, we collected the learning outcomes, learning motivation, and cognitive load of students before and after the learning activity. The results indicated that students had significantly better learning achievement in their comprehension ability and learning motivation after using the proposed system. Therefore, it can be inferred that the VR-based mobile learning system not only helps students restructure knowledge and improves their comprehension skills but also enhances their learning motivation tendencies. In addition, the results showed that the students did not have high intrinsic and extraneous cognitive loads but had a high germane cognitive load. This finding implies that the proposed system can promote students’ learning without overloading their working memories.