StreamFlowVR: A Tool for Learning Methodologies and Measurement Instruments for River Flow Through Virtual Reality

Abstract

Virtual Reality potentialities can be exploited for several types of contexts beyond the mainstream video game industry. One of the most interesting application fields concerns its use in education and teaching especially in the contexts where security and safety are essential elements. The measurement of river flow is required for river management purposes including water resources planning, pollution prevention, and, flood control. The teaching of this complex task requires to transfer well-known methodologies as well as careful attention while performing the training in situ. In this paper, we propose a virtual reality tool called StreamFlowVR to improve the learning process for the river flow instruments and measuring methodologies. The basic idea is to create a rich user experience in a secure environment where students can understand the correct methodologies. We believe that the use of virtual reality benefits the students in learning hydraulic phenomenon faster and more confident respect to the traditional approach on a real river.