aVRika VR-Application

Problem Statement

Over 130 million children worldwide cannot read or write correctly or simply solve mathematical problems. Over the past 15 years, interventions have been launched that have proven to be simple, effective and cost-effective. However, misunderstandings arose in the programs because they were not integrated into the school system. It seems that decision-makers do not fully understand the extent, context or exact handling of interventions on the subject. It should be noted that figures and diagrams are not sufficient to motivate change. In order to concretize the problem of the educational situation, the topic was restricted to a certain country. Thus, the educational situation in Africa (Kenya) is to be addressed as an example of the otherwise global challenge. With the help of a VR application an immersive experience should be created to improve the understanding of the context.

Idea and Concept

In this work, VR will be used to highlight global problems using the example of the educational situation in Africa. In this context, a change in behaviour should occur, but decision-makers in governments or NGOs should also be supported in designing new solutions. But VR technology is mainly used to evoke emotions and empathy. This should primarily help to sensitise people to the problem, but then to initiate a change in behaviour. Through the simulated environment in which VR is immersed with the help of VR, decision-makers can experience the context of the problem first-hand. The VR application should draw attention to the grievances surrounding the educational situation and contribute to the development of selected interventions to solve the problem.

Implementation

Some questions had to be clarified for the implementation. These included, among other things: How must a VR application be designed to create an immersive experience? How can facts and figures be communicated profitably in a VR application? Or, which aspects contribute to finding a solution after the application?
The VR application was created with the help of the Unreal Engine. Here the application of all conventional VR glasses is available.