GeoBotsVR: A Robotics Learning Game for Beginners with Hands-on Learning Simulation

Core Concepts

GeoBotsVR introduces an immersive and practical virtual reality game to engage beginners in robotics, programming, and electronics through hands-on learning experiences.

Abstract

GeoBotsVR is a virtual reality game designed to introduce beginners to robotics, programming, and electronics. It offers an engaging experience where players build and customize robots to solve puzzles in various environments. The game includes a repair feature that challenges players to address electronics and programming issues. GeoBotsVR aims to cultivate interest and motivation in these fields among individuals with limited experience. The game consists of three main components: The Workshop for building robots, The Arcade for gameplay navigation, and The Repair Zone for addressing robot errors. Players can customize their robots using different components affecting gameplay stats like speed, grip strength, and battery capacity. Each level presents unique challenges generated procedurally for replayability. Incorporating elements of puzzle-solving with robotics learning, GeoBotsVR provides an accessible tool for beginners without requiring prior technical knowledge. By combining gamification with virtual reality technology, the game enhances engagement and immersion while fostering interest in STEM education.

Stats

GeoBotsVR combines puzzle-solving with robotics learning. The game features nine maps with three difficulty levels. Players can customize robot components affecting gameplay stats. GeoBotsVR offers 27 randomly generated problems across three difficulty levels.

Quotes

"GeoBotsVR offers an immersive, replayable, practical application-based experience." "Gamification has emerged as a promising approach to engage students in technology-related fields." "The VR environment enhances immersion and player presence in GeoBotsVR."

Key Insights Distilled From

GeoBotsVR

by Syed T. Muba... at arxiv.org 02-29-2024

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2402.09662.pdf

Deeper Inquiries

How does GeoBotsVR compare to traditional educational modes for teaching robotics?

GeoBotsVR offers a unique approach compared to traditional educational modes for teaching robotics. Unlike classroom-based learning, GeoBotsVR provides an immersive and hands-on experience in a virtual reality environment. Traditional methods often require physical space, structured courses, and instructors, while GeoBotsVR can be accessed from the comfort of one's home without the need for extensive resources or time commitments. The game allows individuals with limited technical knowledge to familiarize themselves with robotics components through interactive gameplay elements like The Workshop, The Arcade, and The Repair Zone. This practical application-based approach enhances engagement and motivation by allowing players to build, customize, navigate their robots in various environments while solving puzzles related to programming and electronics.

What potential negative effects should be considered when using VR technology like in GeoBotsVR?

When using VR technology like in GeoBotsVR, several potential negative effects should be considered. One common concern is simulator sickness or VR sickness that users may experience due to prolonged exposure to virtual environments. To mitigate these effects, it is essential to limit playtime and encourage users to take regular breaks during gameplay sessions. Additionally, first-time users may find the user interfaces overwhelming in a VR environment; therefore, efforts should be made to improve the ease-of-use of interfaces for better user experience. Ensuring that interactions are intuitive and user-friendly can help reduce any discomfort or confusion experienced by players engaging with the VR technology.

How can the intuitive interfaces of GeoBotsVR be improved for first-time users?

To enhance the intuitive interfaces of GeoBotsVR for first-time users, several improvements can be implemented: Simplify onboarding: Provide clear tutorials or introductory guides within the game interface that walk new users through basic navigation controls and gameplay mechanics. Visual cues: Incorporate visual cues such as tooltips or hints at key interaction points within the game environment to guide players on how to interact with different components effectively. User feedback: Implement responsive feedback mechanisms that inform users when they perform actions correctly or incorrectly within the game interface. Streamlined interactions: Optimize menu layouts and control schemes for easy access and navigation so that players can intuitively understand how to interact with different elements of the game. 5.Improved accessibility options: Include customizable settings such as adjustable difficulty levels or control configurations tailored towards individual preferences. By incorporating these enhancements into GeoBotsVR's design, first-time users can have a more seamless and enjoyable experience navigating through its features without feeling overwhelmed by complex interfaces commonly associated with virtual reality environments."