Use of virtual reality simulators for training programs in the areas of security and defense: a systematic review

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) has been applied in training programs in the areas of security and defense, with simulators evolving from basic shooting systems into more immersive situations. In spite of all the efforts that have already been invested into research and development initiatives for such simulators, there are further challenges yet to be overcome. These include new devices of interaction and training modules that enable the recreation of security routines situations, as well as the creation of educational methods using simulation. The main contribution of this paper is mapping the state-of-the-art of VR simulators used on training of security agents and identifying which of them presents some kind of automated or semi-automated performance analysis, as well as research studies with simulators based on different techniques (immersive and non-immersive system). Upon completion of a systematic literature review, the authors detected certain gaps and challenges, such as the complete absence of information about educational methods used in simulation training and the lack of automatic users’ assessments. The assessment systems detected were mainly for gunshot, while a posture assessment system has not been detected. So, it is possible to conclude that the creation of automated evaluation systems with the use of VR simulators remains as a challenge yet to be tackled.