An analysis of learners’ intentions toward virtual reality online learning systems: a case study in Taiwan

Abstract

The virtual reality technology, VR, features feeling of blending in, interactivity and imagination. It not only improves on the limitations of conventional learning methods but also enhances the communication of learning contents and messages via interactivity and imitation. Over the past decade, the incorporation of information technology in education has been an important research topic. Following the computer-aided teaching, interactive online learning, distance teaching and mobile learning of the earlier days, the VR technology is now regarded as a new wave of trend facilitating the incorporation of application technology into education. To explore the factors that affect users’ use of virtual reality online learning systems (VROLS), this study based on the theory of cost-benefit perspective and incorporating the perceived value and the flow theories proposes an integrated research model elaborating on why people opt for VROLS services. A total of 296 valid samples were collected from online questionnaires and the data were analyzed using the structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. The findings suggest that both perceived value and flow experience are important roles in users’ use of VROLS services, in which benefits (spatial presence, enjoyment, service compatibility) and costs (complexity and visual fatigue) are the critical factors affecting users’ perceived value and flow experience. The implications of these findings are further discussed.