Evaluation of a Prototype Desktop Virtual Reality Model Developed to Enhance Electrical Safety and Design in the Built Environment.

The use of Desktop Virtual Reality (VR) systems for enhancing electrical safety and engineering design is a novel prospect for both practicing and student electrical services engineers. This innovative approach, which can be readily accessed via the World Wide Web, constitutes a marked shift in conventional learning and design techniques to a more immersive, interactive and intuitive working and learning environment. This paper initially identifies the unique characteristics of desktop web based VR technologies and highlights the educational affordances offered by working in such an environment. Subsequently, using a prototype model titled ‘Virtual Electrical Services’, a case study is carried out to evaluate the users’ attitudes toward VR learning environments and also the usability of the prototype model developed. From the completed case study, it appears that the users perceive the prototype to be a useful tool and are receptive to using VR as a learning and design tool. The paper includes a discussion on the limitations of the system developed and the implications for future enhancement.