Virtual reality for biochemistry education

Virtual Reality (VR) technology can offer transformative educational experiences and is increasingly being adopted within the biochemistry domain to better understand complex biochemical processes. This presentation will introduce a pilot study for the efficacy of VR in biochemistry education at undergraduate university level, focusing on the citric acid cycle. Ten participants were immersed within a VR digital environment where they were able to engage with the eight steps of the citric acid cycle. Electrodermal Activity (EDA) readings were recorded throughout the students’ interaction with VR to measure physiological engagement and participants were asked about their experience through surveys and focus groups. Multiple linear regression analysis of findings indicates that if the students feel engaged, stimulated, intend to use the technology again and find it useful, they will agree that the VR has increased their understanding. EDA analysis indicated that the majority of participants demonstrate enhanced engagement in the experience.