Virtual Reality Technology in Teaching Computer Hardware: A Prototype and Assessment from User Perspectives

Abstract

Computer courses in public schools are typically taught by traditional methods, that involve images and written text explanations. This makes the content of learning materials unclear and hard to understand. Moreover, it is not easy for public schools to equip computer labs with the required devices, as schools have limited budgets. In this paper a protype using VR technology was introduced and assessed in terms of usability, and acceptance. The aim was to provide an interactive virtual learning environment for teaching/learning computer hardware with the most effective method that allow keeping pace with the rapid evolution in this field. The prototype was based on the use of a VR headset to allow the user to explore the internal components of a computer. A test in terms of functionalities and usability was conducted. Results confirmed that the prototype functions were successfully implemented. Subsequent tests on usability proved satisfactory. It is expected that the proposed prototype and study will enrich the teaching methods of public schools with limited budgets - especially for practical and applied courses.