George Nunu
Pronouns: He, him
Research Mentor(s): Kimberlee Kearfott
Co-Presenter:
Research Mentor School/College/Department: NERS/BME / Engineering
Presentation Date: April 20
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: Session 1 – 10am – 10:50am
Room: League Ballroom
Authors: George A Nunu, Jordan D Noey, Kimberlee J Kearfott
Presenter: 65
Abstract
Virtual Reality (VR) eliminates the risks of handling radioactive sources while making the experience of learning radiation protection more interesting. The game being developed with this research seeks to introduce basic radiological principles, such as the inverse square law and shielding to students and the public potentially interested in nuclear science. The Unity game development software is used because it most conveniently integrates with the chosen VR platform, the Oculus Quest. Unity offers functionality with other VR hardware, affording the opportunity to ultimately make the game even more accessible. Unity utilizes C# code for in-depth scripts allowing highly specific game functions such a Non-Player Characters (NPCs). An NPC follows predetermined commands and exists to serve the player according to the developer’s choice. Similar to other implementations, such as a taskmaster or ally, the NPC makes the environment more realistic by audibly communicating necessary information, similar to a lab partner or mentor in a physical laboratory space. The NPC introduces necessary information to accomplish several tutorial game levels, eventually introducing specialized technical language in advanced levels. Subtitles were introduced to visualize the dialog, increasing engagement by demanding greater attention while introducing proper spelling of introduced terminology. To promote a smooth experience, the subtitles were designed to appear at the bottom of the screen only when the NPC is talking, like movie subtitles. The VR game’s design should provide the player a memorable “gestalt†understanding of radiological concepts because of the opportunity to experiment and make mistakes. Further internal game improvements will be informed by rigorous testing and player feedback. It is hoped that the ultimate game played by the target audience will include an evaluative tool to test user’s increased knowledge and a survey asking players quantifying various aspects of their experience.
Engineering, Interdisciplinary
