Virtual Technology Review
Virtual technology is an emerging area of research for a variety of domains and applications. VR is not without its limitations and difficulties, which must be overcome in order to grow and advance. VR is not available due to its high price and the hardware that goes with it. Additionally, it has technical issues, for instance the lack of standardization.
In terms of learning, VR offers an opportunity to experience situations which are challenging or dangerous to try in real life, like a fear of flying or exposure to a traumatic situation. This is especially helpful in the treatment of mental illness, such as PTSD, where VR can help patients deal with these issues in a safe environment.
VR can also improve professional training by enabling athletes to train anywhere in the world without the need to travel to a particular training facility. This can be particularly helpful in the development of perceptual-cognitive abilities that include motor or spatial skills.
There is still much work to do in the areas of theory and methodology as well as pedagogical practices. In particular, there is a need for clarification of the ways in which the different technical and experiential features of VR influence learning outcomes across different professional training contexts. A comprehensive literature review on this subject could assist in determining the optimal allocation of resources, by identifying which VR features are critical for different types of skill development.