User performance analysis in guided and non-guided stressful virtual reality scenarios

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) is a potentially useful technology for training and simulating hazardous scenarios. It is particularly useful for firefighters, healthcare staff or the military, which face emergency situations that involve high levels of stress. Studies have shown that the participant's stress level is increased when confronted with a hazardous scenario in a virtual environment, as would be expected in a realistic simulation. This research describes a methodology based on measuring interactions and objectives in hazardous scenarios, and an empirical study for assessing the participant's performance improvement. A prototype virtual reality experience in which the participants face a radiation emergency has been developed and a pilot study has been run. The methodology, a qualitative and a quantitative analysis with preliminary but promising results are described.

Keywords: virtual reality, learning process, human computer interaction

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004038