The concept of learning in virtual reality in the context of tunnel fire evacuation knowledge

Abstract

This paper aims to explore how and what kind of learning is emphasized in the use of virtual reality to develop fire evacuation knowledge among participants. Experiences from several large tunnel fires in Norway highlight the need for deeper knowledge on tunnel fire evacuation. Virtual reality technology has developed rapidly in recent years and is regarded a powerful tool among fire evacuation researchers. The advantage of virtual reality is to give participants experiences with fire and smoke conditions without exposing them to real risk. A literature study was set up to examine learning from virtual reality. Our understanding of learning is based on a combination of cognitive and sociocultural perspectives. Virtual reality technology provides a safe context for behavioral challenges in different constructed and simulated tunnel fire scenarios. The complexity of real fire evacuation situations challenges the use of virtual reality, both as a validation tool and for learning required evacuation behavior in real situations.