Development of nanoscale virtual reality simulations for the teaching of nanotechnology

Abstract

This paper presents the development of 3D Virtual Reality (VR) based nano-simulations using the PowerWall System - a large scale VR System. The users can fully immerse themselves in the nano world and interact with various nano structures. Another objective of the work is to study how effectively and efficiently the VR simulations can enhance the students' understanding of nanoscale concepts. Three simulations have been presented, including "understanding the scale of nanotube", "understanding different structures of nanomaterials", and "understanding the chirality of nanotube". The nano-simulations have been integrated in the teaching of course ELEG4223 "Photonic and Electronic Materials and Devices". The student survey results are presented in the paper. Students' responses show that they believe that the VR simulations are very helpful in increasing their understanding of nanotechnology.