In recent years, virtual reality (VR) technology has been increasingly employed in various fields, including education. One innovative computer-mediated assessment that stands out is the utilization of VR in educational settings. This immersive technology provides a unique and engaging learning experience, allowing students to explore complex concepts and environments that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to access.

VR-based assessments offer numerous benefits over traditional methods. Firstly, they provide a more interactive and immersive experience, which can enhance students’ understanding of the subject matter. This is particularly important for subjects that require practical application or spatial awareness, such as engineering, architecture, or geology. For example, students can use VR to explore the inner workings of a complex machine, design a building, or investigate geological formations.

Secondly, VR assessments can be tailored to individual students’ needs, providing personalized learning experiences. This is especially helpful for students with special needs, learning disabilities, or those who struggle with traditional assessment methods. By adapting the VR environment to suit each student’s abilities, educators can better assess their understanding and progress.

Thirdly, VR assessments can help reduce the risk of accidents or injuries that may occur in real-life situations. For example, medical students can practice surgical procedures in a simulated environment, reducing the need for hands-on practice on actual patients. This not only enhances students’ skills but also minimizes the potential for harm to real-life patients.

Lastly, VR assessments can help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. By immersing students in realistic scenarios, they can better understand the real-world implications of their actions and decisions. This can lead to more informed and thoughtful problem-solving, ultimately benefiting both the students and society as a whole.

In a nutshe, the use of virtual reality in educational settings is an innovative and effective approach to computer-mediated assessment. It provides an immersive, interactive, and personalized learning experience that can benefit students in various ways, from enhancing their understanding of complex concepts to reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. As VR technology continues to evolve, it is likely that its use in education will become even more widespread and transformative.

References

https://www.queensu.ca/teachingandlearning/modules/assessments/31_s4_01_intro_section.html

https://cgscholar.com/community/community_profiles/assessment-for-learning/community_updates/64333

https://www.open.edu/openlearn/education-development/exploring-innovative-assessment-methods/altformat-word

https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1072576.pdf

https://cetl.ppu.edu/sites/default/files/publications/Innovative%20Assessment%20in%20Higher%20Education.pdf