Virtual reality could serve as environmental education tool

Gaming and virtual reality (VR) could bridge the gap between urban societies and nature, claimed a recent study. The researchers strive to bridge the gap by a new VR game they developed called, Butterfly World 1.0, an adventure game designed to engage its users in learning about insect and plant species.The study was published in the Journal of Rethinking Ecology'Butterfly World' draws the players into an immersive virtual environment, where they learn about relationships between butterflies, plants, and invasive species. While exploring the set, they interact and learn about the federally endangered butterfly and other exotic plants inhabiting the dry forest ecosystem.Other nature-related VR experiences include conservation awareness and educational programs.According to the authors, VR and serious gaming are "the new frontiers in environmental education" and "present a unique opportunity to interact with and learn about different species and ecosystems."