Future Campus Recreation: The Use of Virtual Reality in Overcoming Constraints

Authors : Okan Ünver, Tuğçe Örsoğlu, Bilgetekin Burak Günar, Onur Akgün, Abdulmenaf Korkutata
Pages : 54-66
Doi:10.18826/useeabd.1625133
View : 79 | Download : 23
Publication Date : 2025-03-27
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Aim: This study aims to identify university students\\\' perceived barriers to campus recreation activities and explore how virtual reality (VR) applications can facilitate overcoming these obstacles. Method: A mixed-method approach was used. First, the Leisure Constraints Scale was administered to 154 students. Then, 12 students with the highest perceived barriers participated in a VR session. They engaged in games or 360° videos, preferably. After the session, a focus group discussion was conducted. Structured interview questions were derived deductively from the sub-dimensions of the Leisure Constraints Scale, and the data were analyzed thematically. Results: In the quantitative part of the study, a significant difference was found based on the grade variable (p<0.05). In the qualitative part, 50 codes were identified under three themes: intrapersonal, interpersonal, and structural constraints/negotiations.. Participants viewed VR as an alternative to activities inaccessible in real life. While most evaluated this positively, one participant highlighted the potential for dissatisfaction due to its inability to replicate real-life experiences. VR was highlighted as a preferable option over field-based activities due to its ability to address financial, facility, and time constraints, and its perceived advantage in time management. Conclusion: The revealed key insights: (i)VR can serve as an alternative to inaccessible activities in daily life, (ii)campus recreation activities are limited and poorly advertised; VR provides broader access, (iii)the diversity and cost-free nature of VR is attractive, and (iv)VR may lack the interpersonal interactions inherent in face-to-face activities.
Keywords : Boş zaman engelleri, Engel kolaylaştırıcısı, Kampüs rekreasyonu, Sanal gerçeklik

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