Virtual reality is a model, very faithful to reality, of a 3D object or space. Equipped with a helmet, it is then possible to move around and interact in a virtual space. While we are in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, government instructions call for continuing to limit contact. Video conferencing and other remote communication solutions are therefore making a comeback. Along with virtual reality, distancing potentially offers even more possibilities.
Virtual reality at the service of education
Virtual reality is indeed much more immersive and allows, for example, to practice the same gestures as one would have face-to-face (head movements, "body language"), to show them online. We could then recreate an amphitheater or a meeting, in a much more fun way, for more involvement of the participants. It can even go further, as in the case of the Neoma business and management school, which has set up a virtual campus to allow students to take their courses online.
Some students were also able to test the lessons in virtual reality. Many participants say they are more attentive and motivated, thus making it easier to follow the courses. Also, it allows students to practice for "real life" situations, a helpful tool for business students among others.
The housing sector also concerned
But what about student accommodation? The real estate sector is also affected by this innovation, which is disrupting the usual practices of the sector. Many landlords are currently experiencing massive dematerialization of their processes (electronic signature, online files, remote rental management, etc.), but virtual reality can go even further. For example, it is now possible to make rental visits from home, using a headset. In addition to the time saving that this implies, potential buyers or tenants will be able to view any work or changes in decoration on a property.
Although it presents an interesting alternative to travel constraints, virtual reality is still not very accessible. In fact, to take advantage of this technology, you will need expensive and bulky virtual reality headsets, or your phone and tablet. The giants of the field are constantly innovating to overcome these limitations, but it will take a little patience ...
Remote work solutions should not be seen as "the new normal", but it is important to use the means at our disposal to make the user experience as suitable as possible to current constraints.