Immersive Virtual Reality for Self-Management of Stress & Anxiety : Pilot Test and Evaluation

Abstract

The University of Ottawa, Department of Family Medicine (DFM) has created a prototype (version 1.0) virtual reality (VR) psychoeducational experience for learning about stress management, supported by eCampusOntario Project Grant – OTTA-111. The VR experience uses simulated scuba diving as a context for learning about stress and anxiety, providing an opportunity for learners to practice stress management techniques. The VR experience meets criteria for a Project Type and Technological Readiness Levels (TRL) 7.

The Project: The DFM, in collaboration with Propel VR, a leading XR services provider in Ottawa, plans to test, evaluate, and improve upon their existing VR psychoeducational experience (version 2.0) by conducting a limited pilot in 2022 focusing on: 1. Content updates: Integration of prototype (v1.0) testing and evaluation findings into the VR software application to aid in advancing the VR experience to TRL 8, and beyond. 2. Prototype (v2.0) testing and evaluation: Thorough evaluation of use cases, learning context and outcomes of VR experience in faculty and learners in two academic settings (University of Ottawa and Queen’s University) to understand the efficacy of the VR experience in teaching about stress and anxiety.