Creating a virtual geographic learning environment and its user assessment

Guldariya KURBONOVA

Master's thesis

Abstract:

The warming of the ocean and the melting of land ice, such as glaciers and the ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica, have a direct consequence: sea level rise. Raising public awareness is essential in combating this issue. Traditional media like films and brochures can visually represent climate change's effects, but virtual reality offers a more immersive experience, enhancing environmental consciousness. The objectives of the thesis were to create an immersive virtual learning environment (IVLE) by aligning with current trends in geographic education and its user assessment. To contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG), the COPERNICUS MUSEUM IVLE was developed, focusing on the Copernicus Sentinel-6 mission and the topic of Sea Level Rise (SLR). The usability aspects of the developed IVLE were assessed as part of the research. To gain a better understanding of the IVLE, eye-tracking technology was utilized, and a strategy for analyzing eye-tracking data within a VR environment was outlined. The author also presented a comprehensive workflow for developing the IVLE, outlining specific steps and processes involved in its creation. Additionally, the thesis showcased the connection method between the virtual environment and a Virtual Reality headset using the Blueprint Visual Scripting system. By analyzing eye-tracking data and conducting subjective evaluations, the effectiveness of the design was assessed, and areas for improvement were identified.

Abstract:

The warming of the ocean and the melting of land ice, such as glaciers and the ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica, have a direct consequence: sea level rise. Raising public awareness is essential in combating this issue. Traditional media like films and brochures can visually represent climate change's effects, but virtual reality offers a more immersive experience, enhancing environmental consciousness. The objectives of the thesis were to create an immersive virtual learning environment (IVLE) by aligning with current trends in geographic education and its user assessment. To contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG), the COPERNICUS MUSEUM IVLE was developed, focusing on the Copernicus Sentinel-6 mission and the topic of Sea Level Rise (SLR). The usability aspects of the developed IVLE were assessed as part of the research. To gain a better understanding of the IVLE, eye-tracking technology was utilized, and a strategy for analyzing eye-tracking data within a VR environment was outlined. The author also presented a comprehensive workflow for developing the IVLE, outlining specific steps and processes involved in its creation. Additionally, the thesis showcased the connection method between the virtual environment and a Virtual Reality headset using the Blueprint Visual Scripting system. By analyzing eye-tracking data and conducting subjective evaluations, the effectiveness of the design was assessed, and areas for improvement were identified.

Keywords

virtual learning environment, Blueprint Visual Scripting system, eye-tracking, 3D Visualization, GIS

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 16. 8. 2023

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: RNDr. Stanislav Popelka, Ph.D.

Palacký University Olomouc

Faculty of Science

Master programme / field:
Geoinformatics and Cartography / Geoinformatics and Cartography