Immersive learning: evaluating virtual reality for geological compass education

Abstract

In the field of earth sciences, an essential aspect of geology students´ education is acquiring the skill of using a geological compass, but classroom training and limited field trips are often insufficient. The immersive and interactive nature of the virtual reality (VR) system provides a valuable resource for students and educators, offering new opportunities for immersive learning experiences. This manuscript presents an evaluation study of an innovative VR training system focused on improving practical skills in geological compass usage among geology students. The research compares students who trained with the VR system to those who did not. Results showed significant improvements in measuring strike, dip, and dip direction for students using VR, demonstrating its effectiveness as a training tool. The study highlights the potential of VR technology to enhance practical skill acquisition in geology education.