Low Vision Simulation in Virtual Reality for Training Empathy within Eye Care Providers

Abstract

VR (Virtual reality) has been found an innovative technology that allows health care providers to simulate being a patient with sensory impairments. This study aimed to develop a set of VR software of low vision simulation for eye care providers. The application is based on VR, fully immersive, with gamification and interactive designs. It uses 3D Max and Unity as development tools, and uses C# as the programming language. The solution of Stream VR+HTC Vive Pro makes head movement, hand movement, and body tracking integrated to ensure accurate completion of tasks. Voiceover instructions and background music are also incorporated to match the theme. In the study, 5 low vision symptoms were simulated into the VR application and 3 tasks were matched within each simulation. As a result, a set of visual simulation software for empathy training within eye care providers was developed. The set of low vision simulation software tools can be accessible within a standard university setting and can be used to enhance empathy education in the future.