VSEPR Theory, An Interactive and Immersive Virtual Reality

This work explores the role of immersive learning in regards to predicting molecular structures and orbital hybridization through an Oculus Rift HMD. Specifically, this research utilizes an interactive virtual environment to help teach the concept of the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory. We developed an interactive and immersive simulation in which participants constructed virtual molecules. Following the simulation, participants were asked to identify shapes of similar molecules to measure their understanding of the theory as compared to a control group. Finally, participants answered the Game Experience Questionnaire to assess the level of Immersion. The results show that our immersive virtual reality (IVR) experience improves comprehension of three dimensional structures in chemistry.