For best experience please turn on javascript and use a modern browser!
You are using a browser that is no longer supported by Microsoft. Please upgrade your browser. The site may not present itself correctly if you continue browsing.
uva.nl
Behavioural Science Lab BSL

Participate in Virtual Reality research

Virtual Reality (VR) is a virtual environment that users experience through stereoscopic glasses (headset). Motion sensors allow users to move relatively freely through a virtual space, allowing for the credible experiences, even if these environments may not be realistic at all. Usually it is possible to interact with the virtual environment by means of controllers or gloves, which can be used as hands, making the experience even more similar to reality. The attractive thing about VR is that it offers the possibility to study situations that in reality are difficult to control, dangerous, expensive, or otherwise hard to manipulate.
I want to participate in Virtual reality studies

What to expect during a VR experiment

During VR research you will be temporarily immersed in a virtual environment. You will be equiped with a head-mounted display, so that your field of vision will be fully occupied by a virtual simulation. By means of headphones, your hearing will also be manipulated, so that your visual and auditory senses give you the feeling that this environment is 'real'. The expectation is that it will give us a reliable impression of how you would react to such situations in real life. You will receive information about the research in advance from the researcher. He or she will inform you about the background and purpose of the research. 

What is expected of you during a VR experiment

You do not need to have VR experience to participate in VR research. Also, no experience with video games or simulations is required, unless specifically mentioned in the recruitment text of the study. Because each participant has unique eyes, the headset will be adjusted to the preferences and characteristics of the participant prior to the simulation. Sometimes physiological measurements are taken at the same time, for example to measure your heartbeat or skin conduction. This is done by electrodes on your fingers or a band around your diaphragm. All devices are cleaned and disinfected afterwards, so that they are completely refreshed for the next participant.

How to prepare for an VR experiment

Unless otherwise stated in the accompanying text of the research, no preparation is required for VR research. If you wear glasses you can just wear them. Lenses are no problem either. If at any time you feel nauseous, anxious or uncomfortable during the experience, for whatever reason, you can take the headset off, or ask the researchers to do so.

Can I participate in VR experiments?

In principle, anyone can participate in VR experiments. Always take a close look at which target group is being sought for the research for which you are registering, and whether you belong to that target group.

Want to know more about our Virtual Reality lab?