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Virtual Reality (VR) experiences are enabled by a motion sensitive screen built into a goggle or headset, which the user (student) wears and thereby immersing themselves in a 360-degree visual environment, by steering the motion sensitive device with head movements, explain Zertuche, Connors, Scheinman, Kothari and Wong (2020). Users (students) are able to navigate the specific computer generated, real or artificial, three dimensional virtual environment, as substitute for ‘real life’ experiences, as if they were actually physically present. The virtual environment/reality could range from static images to full-motion video, with associated audio. VR technology has, since its introduction, reduce in expense, and is now widely used in different industries. VR has emerged in medical education as a cost-effective and impactful tool.
Zertuche et al. (2020) found that facility tours by VR not only have the potential of replacing in-person site tours, but also more efficient with regard to time consumed and elimination of transportation costs. Photos of the relevant sites were taken with a 360-degree camera, and made accessible through the free Google Cardboard application (app) for VR. Participants were given cardboard-constructed goggles to be worn over the eyes, held in position with elastic headbands. The inexpensive cardboard goggles held the users’ smart phone. As the user turns her/his head, either left, right, up, or down, the viewer’s perspective moves accordingly, which enabled 360-degree visualization of the virtual environment. The users were encouraged to browse the images thoroughly, and ask as many questions as they deem necessary.
How to Assemble Google Cardboard DIY Kit
Zertuche, J-P., Connors, J., Scheinman, A., Kothari, N. & Wong, K. 2020. Using virtual reality as a replacement for hospital tours during residency interviews. Medical Education Online, 25(1). Electronically accessible from https://doi.org/10.1080/10872981.2020.1777066
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