BY PAMELA ECHEMUNOR
The simplified meaning of Virtual Reality (VR) is the imitation of the real world in an artificial space, controlled by the computer, where the user experiences its sights and sounds. The famous Jumanji movie franchise is a perfect example of VR but the concept behind this type of technology is more than we can ever imagine.
Let us take a look-see at how VR has made a notable impact on some industries:
1.VR in the Education space
With the onset of Covid-19, there has been an increase in VR usage. To avoid health hazards and maintain social distancing, the use of VR- powered learning modules has been optimized, to not only trainees in the working-class sector but also students. Some special needs schools have adopted the technology to shorten gaps, improve skills and distance learning. The oil and gas industries and engineering sectors have also created a safe space for their trainees. The virtual world allows them the luxury of not being exposed to real-time scenarios but offers training facilities that imitate such cases thereby reducing potential risks.
2. VR in the Health space
There are various ways VR has improved the medical line. Asides from breaking the geographical barrier, Virtual Reality technology has helped in mental therapy sessions. One of them being ‘Exposure therapy’, which is the continuous exposure of patients to their phobias; after sensing that they go unscathed, they start to feel more confident and hopefully confront their fears.
Another application of this magnificent technology is the learning tool. It allows hands-on surgical procedures that could very well endanger the life of a patient but in the virtual world, it can be used as a practice session in a controlled environment.
It is also great for research purposes, scientists keep exploring its prospects and attaining new heights every day.
3.VR in the Entertainment space
It is no news that the gaming industry is well-known for using VR. The Head Mounted Display (HMD) has transformed into different variations and improved user experience each time. Film houses, Arcades are no strangers to this type of gadgetry. Security agencies have also adopted this as part of their simulation training, although a lot more advanced.
4. VR in the Construction and Real Estate space.
This is where the ideas of the clients and contractors merge. No more ‘this is not the way I imagined it.’ You could virtually get into the house, take out the undesirables and set it in the tone you want; On every stage of the building process, you are present. It also gives a pictorial view thereby reducing on-site visits and saving time.
5. VR in the Marketing space.
It is frustrating when one does not buy into your idea, which makes it even harder to convince one when they do not have a visual representation of what you are selling. It is all well and good to have the predicted images and figures on a screen but what would make it better if it can appeal to one’s senses. Virtual Reality is an immersive tool that does just that. Imagine visiting a much-desired destination; walking through the hotel lobby, visiting the art gallery nearby, conversing with patrons, without actually moving from your spot… It makes you want to catch the next flight, right? That is exactly how powerful Virtual Reality is!
The possibilities are endless, who knows what world of opportunities awaits us…
