The Use of Virtual Reality (VR) in Library Studies

To respond to the learning needs of students, VR was incorporated into a number of Library Studies programmes this spring. Virtual library tours were developed. By putting on VR headsets, students can ‘walk through’ libraries and experience the setup without physical visits. VR tours are used to explain the library physical design, service points, facilities and space utilisation among libraries so that learners can have a better understanding of the library facilities and space usage. VR has been integrated into Master of Information Studies, Bachelor of Information Studies and Diploma in Teacher Librarianship (Primary) programmes. With promising perceptions from teachers and students, more programmes will be included.

In addition, a virtual tour demonstration was conducted on the Open SPACE 2017 (3 June 2017).  Potential learners could experience the use of VR in education. Positive feedback was received.