Implications With VR
Cybersickness
(Motion Sickness)
The delay when using VR devices is a compelling cause of motion sickness. Motion sickness caused by VR devices is also termed as cybersickness. Younger people, aged 2-12, are the most susceptible to these motion sickness. These symptoms include headaches, nausea, eye strains, and disorientations. Cybersickness is very similar to other motion-related syndromes such as sea sickness and travel sickness.
Health Implications
(Largely Unknown)
Cybersickness is an obstacle in the development of VR devices as the negative effects impose some significant challenges. This is largely attributed to the mismatch in sensory information between the body and brain when one is using a VR device. Moreover, the VR’s long-term effects on our bodies are still unknown. With the rising popularity and accessibility of VR even to younger aged kids, these implications should be considered.
Reality Confusion
False Memories
A study showed that pre-school and elementary students are susceptible to false memories. The students that participated in these experiments were provided a virtual experience. After a week, their feedbacks were collected and the students told the researchers that the experience felt were real. Moreover, the study also further demonstrated that even such effects are also experienced by subjects who are passively observing the virtual experience. While the goal of VR is to facilitate an immersive experience for the end users, it also poses danger for them as they might not be able to differentiate between real or virtual events. Even though such potential hazards might arise, there are still benefits to be reaped with the use of such technology.
Going Forward
Future of VR
Undoubtedly, the future of VR is exciting and significant with the recent developments. VR’s integration with other technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), or even Augmented Reality (AR) can and will provide seemingly endless combinations. Ultimately, to incorporate and harness such technologies will be certain in time to come.
