VR Applications Research Articles

Developing English language learners’ speaking skills through applying a situated learning approach in VR-enhanced learning experiences

A situated learning environment is crucial for language learners to develop speaking skills as learners can apply their speaking skills in context, helping them adapt language use to various situations and improve their language proficiency and communication effectiveness. Although various features of situated learning environments have been explored across different subject areas and in many platforms, there is limited research on their application to language learning within VR environments. This convergent mixed-method study adopts a situated learning framework and examines the impact of situated learning on learners’ English-speaking performance, specifically in areas of fluency, vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar, and explores learners’ perception of the instruction based on the situated learning approach. Sixteen first-year English majors at a university in China participated in eight role-play speaking classes using the desktop-based VR application, Immerse. The study involved pre- and post-assessments of speaking performance and semi-structured interviews with six participants. Paired samples t-tests were used to assess the difference in the speaking performance and respective areas, and a thematic analysis was adopted to explore learners’ perceptions of the instruction based on the situated learning approach. Quantitative findings show a significant improvement in learners’ speaking performance (t(15) = 7.41, p < .001, Cohen’s d = 1.82), with notable progress in fluency, vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data indicated the authenticity of the context and activities, the collaborative nature of the tasks, the expert guidance, and the opportunities for reflection all contribute to a comprehensive learning experience that aligns well with the principles of situated learning.

Measuring and Predicting Multisensory Reaction Latency: A Probabilistic Model for Visual-Auditory Integration.

Virtual/augmented reality (VR/AR) devices offer both immersive imagery and sound. With those wide-field cues, we can simultaneously acquire and process visual and auditory signals to quickly identify objects, make decisions, and take action. While vision often takes precedence in perception, our visual sensitivity degrades in the periphery. In contrast, auditory sensitivity can exhibit an opposite trend due to the elevated interaural time difference. What occurs when these senses are simultaneously integrated, as is common in VR applications such as 360° video watching and immersive gaming? We present a computational and probabilistic model to predict VR users' reaction latency to visual-auditory multisensory targets. To this aim, we first conducted a psychophysical experiment in VR to measure the reaction latency by tracking the onset of eye movements. Experiments with numerical metrics and user studies with naturalistic scenarios showcase the model's accuracy and generalizability. Lastly, we discuss the potential applications, such as measuring the sufficiency of target appearance duration in immersive video playback, and suggesting the optimal spatial layouts for AR interface design.

Exploring AR and VR Applications in Modern Libraries

Exploring AR and VR Applications in Modern Libraries

An Exploratory Expert-Study for Multi-Type Haptic Feedback for Automotive Virtual Reality Tasks.

Previous research has shown that integrating haptic feedback can improve immersion and realism in automotive VR applications. However, current haptic feedback approaches primarily focus on a single feedback type. This means users must switch between devices to experience haptic stimuli for different feedback types, such as grabbing, collision, or weight simulation. This restriction limits the ability to simulate haptics realistically for complex tasks such as maintenance. To address this issue, we evaluated existing feedback devices based on our requirements analysis to determine which devices are most suitable for simulating these three feedback types. Since no suitable haptic feedback system can simulate all three feedback types simultaneously, we evaluated which devices can be combined. Based on that, we devised a new multi-type haptic feedback system combining three haptic feedback devices. We evaluated the system with different feedback-type combinations through a qualitative expert study involving twelve automotive VR experts. The results showed that combining weight and collision feedback yielded the best and most realistic experience. The study also highlighted technical limitations in current grabbing devices. Our findings provide insights into the effectiveness of haptic device combinations and practical boundaries for automotive virtual reality tasks.

Communicating life-saving knowledge: The multimodal arrangement in Lifesaver VR

VR applications for medical simulations such as emergency situations offer new ways of providing knowledge and practical skills for saving a life and potentially represent a complex communicative environment. The communicative situations constructed by this environment bring with them an increasing level of interactivity and ergodicity and it is particularly challenging to address these analytically. We address this challenge by looking at Lifesaver VR and providing a foundational framework for the multimodal analysis of the communicative situations created in this application. We describe how information and content units of the game can be built and how these units can then be combined into complex discourse structures outlining the complexity and simultaneity of narrative, instructional, and interactive aspects of the game.

Advancements of virtual reality in tourism and hospitality research. A hybrid review using the TCCM framework

ABSTRACT This paper aims to explore the advancements in VR research within tourism and hospitality industry using a hybrid review approach combining bibliometric analysis and TCCM framework. The study uncovers the past, present, and emerging research themes in the field, with most studies grounded in theoretical foundations (T); it presents eleven distinct contexts of VR applications (C); and indicates VR experiences mostly enhance behavioral intentions to visit (C); quantitative approaches, such as surveys and experiments are preferred over qualitative methods (M). Finally, this study proposes a conceptual model and nomological network, along with directions for future research through the TCCM perspective.

Development of Virtual Reality-Based Left Brain System

This paper proposes a virtual reality based Left Brain System named BrainUp World to improve left brain thinking. The left-brain system was employed with mobile virtual reality technology, hand motion tracking and haptic feedback system. The implementation of these systems is to enhance the experience and sense of embodiment. BrainUp World includes virtual reality-based brain training games to improve a person’s attention level, reasoning skill, auditory cognition, arithmetic skill, sequencing skill and memory. The hand tracking system was utilized with an IR camera to capture the hand orientation and return the gesture data to the VR application. A low-cost and lightweight haptic glove was invented which provides the sense of touch using vibrations while interacting with VR contents. An experimental study was conducted to assess the efficacy of BrainUp World compared to traditional PC-based training approaches. Participants were randomly assigned to either the VR-based or PC-based training group and underwent 6 different games to test a person’s attention level, reasoning skill, auditory cognition, arithmetic skill, sequencing skill, and memory. The results revealed a statistically significant improvement in left brain function in the VR-based training group compared to the PC-based group, with a T-score growth of 4.73. Analysis using ANOVA confirmed the significance of this difference (p-Value = 0.04). Notably, the study also identified age-related differences in thinking fluency, highlighting the importance of personalized cognitive training interventions. In conclusion, BrainUp World demonstrates the potential of VR technology in promoting left brain development, as evidenced by empirical findings from the conducted study. By offering immersive and interactive cognitive training experiences, VR-based systems hold promise for enhancing various aspects of cognitive function associated with left hemisphere dominance. Further research in this area is encouraged to explore the full potential of VR-based interventions for cognitive enhancement.

Synthetic image data generation via rendering techniques for training AI-based Instance Segmentation

Within the scope of the development of the project, the acceleration and gyro signal, VR implementation, and User Control for VR were realized. The starting point was a list of MPU9250 data, which are acceleration and gyro data. The goal is to do the signal processing of the signal that is got from MPU9250 and implement the data with a specific format so that the LINAK LA36 actuator can be controlled in such a way that it performs as desired position. For this purpose, a multi-axis acceleration and position sensor is mounted on a surfing board which then collects the acceleration and Gyro data. A MATLAB Program had been written to convert the desired position into a CAN message. Before that, the raw acceleration data and gyro must be converted and filtered into actual data. First, the acceleration data was collected from another group. A signal processing method has been implemented. This includes gravitational force filter, noise filter, integration, and complementary filter method was used in order to get the accurate actual data that is able to be implemented into the system. For those methods, it was necessary to deal extensively with the characteristics of signal processing. VR application was implemented in this project to give the user a sensational surfing experience in the virtual world. User control has been implemented as well to allow users to control the video. Unity with Arduino work together so that both Arduino and Unity can communicate with each other, and signal messages will be sent to the Arduino from Unity and vice versa to achieve the synchronization of the video signal and Unity VR application.

Noise sensors - Part 1: Usage for the redesign of neighbourhoods

An interdisciplinary research project at the Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences with participation of the departments of urban planning, surveying and geoinformatics, business psychology and acoustics, present alternative urban scenarios. Different aspects for the redesign of the district, especially measures to reduce the individual motorised transport, were investigated. Virtual reality and augmented reality experiments are used in public spaces, to show redesign possibilities. Surveys of people, who had the experience of the future scenarios via the AR application and VR application, were carried out. Additionally, acoustical surveys and measurements in this research project were performed using so called noise sensors. These sensors based on MEMS microphones were developed for a simple and cost-effective measurement of external noise in a citizen sciences project. The measurement results of the noise sensors are saved online and can be accessed on the homepage "Sensor.Community". One of the noise sensors was used in the project area over a longer period. Measurement values were generated in third octave bands at intervals of 5 s and are available for further evaluations, e.g. for the calculation of indoor noise levels. The paper presents the research project and reports about the application of the noise sensor.

Clinicians’ perspectives of immersive tools in clinical mental health settings: a systematic scoping review

BackgroundVirtual Reality in mental health treatment has potential to address a wide spectrum of psychological and neurocognitive disorders. Despite the proven benefits, integration into clinical practice faces significant challenges. There is a critical need for research into clinicians’ perceptions of virtual reality due to the gap between rapid technological advancements and their adoption in mental health services.MethodA scoping review was conducted to comprehensively understand clinicians’ perspectives on the application of immersive virtual reality technologies within mental health settings. 4 data bases were searched, from inception, with the search areas of clinicians’, technology, perspectives and mental health. The scoping review followed the PRISMA-ScR checklist. All results were thematically analysed to identify and categorise themes with a focus on qualitative analyses of clinicians’ experiences and perceptions of VR applications in therapeutic contexts.Results17 articles were selected, encompassing a range of mental health settings. The findings indicate that the integration of VR in clinical environments is heavily influenced by clinicians’ knowledge and experience, with unfamiliarity often leading to scepticism. Positive attitudes towards VR, bolstered by direct experience and training, were found to drive acceptance, as clinicians’ acknowledged its potential to complement traditional therapies. However, there are still gaps in understanding VR’s therapeutic applications, particularly concerning its impact on human interaction and its suitability for specific patient groups. Balancing VR’s clinical benefits with ethical and safety concerns is crucial, especially when working with vulnerable populations. Furthermore, structural and administrative support is essential to overcoming the financial and logistical challenges of VR implementation, ensuring its safe and effective integration into mental health care.ConclusionWhile VR holds significant potential for enhancing mental health care, its successful integration into clinical practice necessitates addressing existing gaps in knowledge, training, and structural support. By carefully balancing its clinical benefits with ethical, practical, and safety considerations, VR can be effectively utilised as a valuable tool in mental health treatment, providing innovative solutions while ensuring that patient care remains paramount.

Development of VR application for the field of education using the example of the laboratory of experimental physics

The article describes the process of designing and creating a VR laboratory for the study of experimental physics. The project involves the integration of VR technologies, the development of a user interface and functionality for safe and visual physical experiments. The solution being developed will allow students to effectively learn and understand physical laws in an interactive virtual environment, expanding educational opportunities in this area.

Animated interactive 3D cartography in VR applications

Animated interactive 3D cartography in VR applications

A technology acceptance model to predict anesthesiologists' clinical adoption of virtual reality

BackgroundVirtual reality (VR) is a novel tool with demonstrated applications within healthcare; however its integration within clinical practice has been slow. Adoption patterns can be evaluated using a technology acceptance model (TAM).The primary study aim was to use VR TAM to assess factors that influence anesthesiologists' acceptance of VR for preoperative anxiolysis. The secondary aim assessed the model's reliability. Methods109 clinical anesthesiologists at Stanford were exposed to a VR application developed as a distraction tool to reduce preoperative patient anxiety. Anesthesiologists were surveyed about their attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors as predictors of their likelihood to clinically use VR. The primary outcome assessed predictive validity using descriptive statistics, construct validity using confirmatory factor analysis, and standardized estimates of model relationships. The secondary outcome assessed reliability with Cronbach's α and composite reliability. ResultsConstruct validity and reliability was assessed, where all values established acceptable fit and reliability. Hypothesized predictors of consumer use were evaluated with standardized estimates, looking at perceptions of usefulness, ease of use, and enjoyment in predicting attitudes and intentions toward using and purchasing. Past use and price willing to pay did not predict perceived usefulness. Participants in lower age ranges had higher levels of perceived ease of use than those >55 years. ConclusionAll confirmatory factor analysis testing for construct validity had good fit. Perceptions of usefulness and enjoyment predicted an anesthesiologist's attitude toward using and intention to purchase, while perceived ease of use predicted perceived usefulness and enjoyment, attitude toward purchasing and using, and intention to use. Past use and price willing to pay did not influence perceptions of usefulness. Lower age predicted greater perceived ease of use. All scales in the model demonstrated acceptable reliability. With good validity and reliability, the VR-TAM model demonstrated factors predictive of anesthesiologist's intentions to integrate VR into clinical settings.

Nursing student’s perceptions, satisfaction, and knowledge toward utilizing immersive virtual reality application in human anatomy course: quasi-experimental

BackgroundA paradigm shift in nursing education is required to prepare Z generation of nursing students through integrated innovative technologies as teaching strategies such as immersive virtual reality in several bioscience and main courses to facilitate and enhance learning process.Aim/objectiveExamine the effect of utilizing an immersive virtual reality application on students’ perceptions, knowledge, and satisfaction in an anatomy course.MethodsA quasi-experimental (pre-post test, one group) design was conducted among 1st year nursing students (N = 138) enrolled in an anatomy course in the spring semester of 2023–2024 in the nursing program in the health professions faculty at Al-Quds University. The technology acceptance model (TAM) was used for data collection.ResultsThe results showed that 96% of participants were satisfied with using the VR application, and it retains their knowledge in the human anatomy course. 92% of the total, were under the age of twenty, and 84% were females. 80.1% (2.99 ± 0.58) of those students had more positive perspectives of VR applications in the nursing courses. Additionally, there were significant differences in students’ satisfaction and knowledge toward using VR applications after the anatomy lecture (p = 0.029, p = 0.05, respectively).ConclusionVirtual reality is a supplemental innovative tool for promoting learning. Nursing students perceive immersive virtual reality technologies positively and prefer using three-dimensional images in their anatomy courses, which helps them recall their knowledge, understand concepts of educational content, identify learning objectives, and improve learning outcomes. This study found that virtual reality can improve nursing students’ understanding, satisfaction, and knowledge of anatomy.

Opportunities overcome challenges in adopting immersive virtual reality in online learning

The use of immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) has witnessed an increasing demand in online learning, though challenges are slowing its adoption. This paper presents a scoping review on the deployment of IVR in online learning: its utilisation, challenges, and opportunities. The study reveals that IVR is mainly used to provide remote access to learning experiences, improve cognitive, affective and skills outcomes, and simulate experiences that are often available in traditional classrooms. Hardware-related issues are among the greatest challenges for the ubiquitous use of IVRs in online learning, with internet access being cited as the primary concern. Cost of hardware, physical side-effects, software design and amount of educator training required have also been raised as common challenges. The analysis of the reported opportunities revealed that the increasing availability of VR technologies shows the potential to overcome these challenges associated with hardware, where smartphone devices are still considered the most accessible and scalable tool. In addition, the increasing availability of modelling software creates an opportunity for faster and cheaper development of VR applications. Furthermore, the use of IVR in online learning presents solutions to common online learning issues associated with reduced student engagement and learning, access to work-based activities and lack of connectedness.

Does Sense of Presence Affect People's Politeness? Comparing VRChat and Soul App

Mobile social activities are among the most popular forms of socialization today, and has become an integral part of people's daily lives. With advances in technology and the rise of affordable virtual reality devices, VR social interaction through avatar creation and support for advanced body tracking capabilities has the potential to lead the next revolution in the digitization of social activities. However, whether in VR or on mobile phones, user politeness and friendliness are always crucial factors influencing the user experience of social applications. While past research has examined online politeness, less attention has been paid to comparing politeness perceptions between social VR and mobile applications. In the meantime, given that the core characteristics of VR socializing is its heightened sense of presence, research by many scholars in the relevant field also indicates that presence often positively correlates with positive emotions. Therefore, this study will explore how people perceive and express verbal and non-verbal politeness behaviors in different social applications (VR chat, Soul app), as well as investigate how the sense of presence provided by the devices influences people's expression of politeness. The study's results identified the polite and impolite behaviors that people had perceived in VR and the mobile App. Lastly, the study also reported that VR applications that offer a heightened sense of presence can better facilitate politeness.

(Invited) Heavy-Metal-Free Quantum Dot Thin-Film Photodetectors for SWIR Imaging: A Comprehensive Analysis for Performance Enhancement

Various emerging technologies investigate the ability to sense and detect light in the shortwave infrared spectrum (wavelengths between 1100nm and 2500nm). Autonomous cars, smart agriculture, eye tracking for AR and VR applications, face recognition, surveillance, machine vision and new microscopy techniques can take advantage of additional information found in SWIR.Thin film photodetectors, based on quantum dot photodiodes, show promise in bringing SWIR sensing to the mass markets by offering simpler and cheaper processes and higher resolution than existing technologies. However, the prevalent use of lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd) and mercury (Hg) in existing quantum dot thin film photodetectors poses safety, environmental and regulatory challenges, limiting their widespread adoption.InAs quantum dots emerge as a leading alternative, offering a heavy metal free solution and paving the way for the next generation of SWIR imaging devices. Nevertheless, a nuanced understanding of InAs-based devices is imperative for unlocking their full potential and optimizing performance. This work presents a meticulous and extensive analysis conducted in our laboratories, encompassing both devices and materials. The resulting insights empower an agile and informed redesign of the photodiode, showcasing tangible improvements in performance metrics.

Artificial Neural Network Application in Construction and the Built Environment: A Bibliometric Analysis

Over the past decade, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of various technologies in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction sector. Artificial intelligence has played a significant role throughout the different phases of the design and construction process. A growing body of literature recognizes the importance of artificial neural network applications in numerous areas of the construction industry and the built environment, presenting a need to explore the main research themes, attributes, benefits, and challenges. A three-step extensive research method was utilized by conducting a bibliometric search of English language articles and conducting quantitative and qualitative analyses. The bibliometric analysis aimed to identify the current research directions and gaps forming future research areas. The scientometric analysis of keywords revealed diverse areas within the construction industry linked to ANNs. The qualitative analysis of the selected literature revealed that energy management in buildings and construction cost predictions were the leading research topics in the study area. These findings recommend directions for further research in the field, for example, broadening the application ranges of ANNs in the current Construction 4.0 technologies, such as robotics, 3D printing, digital twins, and VR applications.

The Impact of Immersive Technologies on Cultural Heritage: A Bibliometric Study of VR, AR, and MR Applications

The Impact of Immersive Technologies on Cultural Heritage: A Bibliometric Study of VR, AR, and MR Applications

Virtual Empathy: Usability and Immersivity of a VR System for Enhancing Social Cohesion through Cultural Heritage

In this paper we describe and evaluate a VR application, designed with a novel approach that allows personalized interaction and a more immersive virtual experience. This VR system uses both a user-based methodology in which the user expresses his/her emotions by interacting directly with the environment; and an artificial intelligence-driven methodology that is based on automated language systems able to detect user emotion and moral values from verbal speech. In this study we evaluated the usability and immersivity of our system on a sample of 30 museum visitors. The results indicate that our application is easy and pleasant to use for visitors, and that positive assessments are significantly associated with the level of immersion and realism experienced within the virtual environment. Additionally, we found a low incidence of motion sickness among users.