Summary:
This section basically goes through various types of virtual realities (VR) and discusses what defines one from the other and what uses they have been utilized for. Virtual reality systems all “provide an environment created by the computer or other media where the user feels present, that is immersed physically, perceptually, and psychologically” (p. 464). There are a few things that are looked at between the different types of VR, which help to categorize them. First, is how close to reality the application is and two, how deep the person is integrated into the system.
The last thing that Mclellan states is that VR is not always three-dimensional, which I thought was interesting.
Reflection:
I concentrated on the difference between the first three types mentioned: immersive first-person, augmented reality, and through the window. The first, immersive first-person, seems to be the most real life experience. The article describes this VR interacting with most of the senses. There have been experiences that have even tried adding scent and tactile applications. In this section she brings up the term “homebrew,” which is referring to the inexpensive software and applications making certain VR types available to the education field.
Augmented reality (AR), is a form of immersive first-person but adds a second element that is a see-through layer supplying more information to the user, enhancing their experience and their knowledge of the situation. A study is referred to that found “with the aid of an AR system, a nontrained worker could assemble a wirebundle – faster than a trained worker who was not using this system” (p. 465). Another application to this type of VR is in the medical field. Even from the time this chapter was written, I am sure, there have been huge advances in the medical field using AR.
The last VR I am going to talk about is “Through the Window.” This one deals with a 3-D picture on a computer screen which one is able to navigate through the space. I think of this one mostly in the new video games out. They have gone from 2-D to high level 3-D where you can not only move from room to room but open doors, peer into objects within a room and even pick up and move things. Quite amazing. This application is also used with set design, architecture, and even educational environments.
Overall I think that VR is quite an interesting subject, and I am sure the more I dive into the field of Education Technology more uses for VR will become apparent.
McLellan, H. (2004). Virtual Realities. In D. Jonassen, (Ed.), Handbook of research on educational communications and technology (2nd ed., pp. 461-498). Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Publishers.