Grasping the Magnitude of Areas on Earth: A Virtual Reality Approach

By Jacqueline Kies

Abstract
Across scientific research, political discussions and everyday thinking, there is a common challenge: comprehending the vast quantities and scales that underpin our understanding of the world. Surface area, spanning hundreds to millions of square kilometers, is central to discussions of climate change, land distribution and resource conservation. The magnitude of these areas is difficult to understand due to their large scales, which are beyond direct human perception. Virtual Reality (VR) offers us the opportunity to perceive what was once invisible by bringing these immense scales into our view.

This study developed a pilot VR training to explore whether immersive VR can enhance understanding of Earth's vast areas more effectively than a 2D desktop-based training while creating a more positive learning experience. Participants took a journey around the world, zooming out to incrementally larger areas either in the virtual space or on the desktop.

The results revealed two emerging trends: participants in the VR condition rated their experience slightly more positively than those using the desktop. However, learning to estimate spatial magnitudes appeared to be moderately more effective on the desktop than in the virtual environment. This trend aligns with findings from most previous studies comparing VR to other media.

This pilot study of the novel VR intervention yielded valuable insights for improving the current VR experience and directions for future research. By comparing the effectiveness and learning experience of VR and desktop-based training, this study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the potential of immersive VR as a learning tool. As the technology continues to advance, it is crucial to explore how VR can be optimized to enhance learning and to understand its strengths and limitations compared to other learning methods.