Comparing Online and Virtual Reality Moral Dilemma Discussions: Focusing on Morality, Perspective-Taking, and Communication Skills

Abstract

This study explored the educational effects of online and virtual reality moral dilemma discussions (OMDD and VRMDD, respectively) among university students. In Study 1, participants were randomly assigned to an OMDD or VRMDD condition, participating in both conditions in acquainted pairs. The acquainted pairs discussed Heinz's dilemmas (1) and ( 2). The Standards for Public Space (SPS) and Communication Skill (CS) scales were measured separately before and after the experiment. Results revealed significant differences in the main effect of both conditions for the SPS subscales. Participants scored higher on the SPS egocentric and peer standards subscales in the pre-test than in the post-test, which had significant main effects at the time of the survey. OMDD and VRMDD practice showed decreased SPS subscale scores with a narrow social perspective (egocentric and peer standards) and were not related to the subscales with a wider social perspective (regional standards, care for others, and public values) and the CS scale. Similar to Study 1, VRMDD was conducted in the same manner in Study 2. SPS and the Interpersonal Reactivity Index scales were measured before and after the experiment. The results of Study 1 were replicated, and VR perspective-taking was confirmed.