COGNITIVE PSYCHOLOGY AND VIRTUAL REALITY SYSTEMS
The purpose of this research is to review the interactive effects and influences between cognitive psychology and the development of computer based virtual reality systems. Computer based virtual reality systems are defined, and the applications of the technology are discussed prior to the review of the interactive effects and influences between cognitive psychology and the development of computer based virtual reality systems.
Virtual Reality Systems: Definitions and Applications
Virtual reality is a technology that is more commonly associated with combat pilot activities and computer games than with the more scholarly pursuits (Laurel, 1991, p. 3). The cyberspace of virtual reality, however, promises to be highly useful in the practice of many scholarly and even more mundane activities (Laurel, 1986, p. 296).
Virtual reality systems attempt to create three dimensional "worlds than can be experienced from inside . . ., and manipulated" (Taubes, 1994, p. 70). Virtual reality, thus, "allows people to enter electronic worlds and act in those worlds as they might act in a similar setting in the real world" (Virtual, 1994, p. 4).
Virtual reality systems use computerized gear to create a believable three dimensional world (Freiman, 1994, p. 8). As such, virtual reality systems represent a form of presentation technology. There are two widely accepted conceptualizations of
presentation technology the physical science concept and the
behavioral science concept (Saettler, 1989, p. 3). When presentation technology is considered within the context of physical science, it is typically viewed as the application of physical science and engineering technology to a process (Saettler, 1989, p. 4). This concept emphasizes device effects and procedures, as opposed to message content, and differences among individuals in a target audience (Saettler, 1989, p. 4).
The ...