Use of Virtual Reality as an Alternative Practical Tool in Higher Education during the Covid-19 Pandemic

International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) | Volume VIII, Issue II, February 2021 | ISSN 2321–2705

Use of Virtual Reality as an Alternative Practical Tool in Higher Education during the Covid-19 Pandemic

 Noreen Sarai^*1, Dr Loveness Museva^2
*1Computer Science, Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe
²Educational Policy Studies & Leadership, Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe

Abstract: This research paper aims to analyse the concept of virtual reality as a practical tool to bridge the gap created by inadequacy of hardware equipment, inability to carry-out physical practical exercises due to the COVID-19 pandemic and expertise to carry out practical work. The research was bounded by the research questions that focused on analysing whether VR systems could be used as alternatives in laboratory work, analysing the impact of using such systems and also identifying the possible challenges likely to be faced alongside their mitigation strategies. The research was based on the philosophy of positivism as the researchers sought to test the possibilities of usage of virtual reality as alternative tools in higher education. The research method used in this study was the mixed method approach as the research employed both qualitative and quantitative data and analysis. The data was obtained through use of questionnaires and checklist and was then analysed statistically. When analysing the impact, an open-software was used by a control group of students who implemented a VR system for research purposes. Students were then evaluated basing on the usage the software. Results were then produced and conclusions drawn on whether VR tools could be used as alternatives in higher learning. Results showed that it is possible to use VR systems as alternatives practical tools in higher learning and showed more of positive impact on the learning process of students. Possible mitigation mechanisms were also established with goal of cabbing the possible challenges likely to be faced when using VR systems. The study recommended the use of VR systems as possible as they were able to enhance retention of knowledge by the students and they were to lighten up the learning space as students show so much interest when learning whilst using them.

Key words: Virtual Reality; Simulation; higher learning; COVID-19; practical tool

I.INTRODUCTION

This research focused on the application of Virtual Reality as a practical tool in Higher learning. We considered the case a State University which is an Institute of higher Learning in Zimbabwe offering Engineering and Science programmes. Each academic year students doing the Computer Systems Engineering programme within the Computer Science Department normally have 6 out 12 modules that require usage of hardware components. In most instances these components are not available

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