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Abstract
Virtual reality is a relatively new term related to the technological environment. No studies have been found that look at the conceptions of VR held by nonexperts. In this study, a phenomenographic approach was used to identify conceptions of VR held by adolescents and adults living in two Australian cities. Their information about VR was mainly derived from friends and mass media sources. Interviews revealed five qualitatively different conceptions: (a) VR is technologically generated, (b) VR is a game or entertainment, (c) VR is a multisensory experience, (d) VR is like an experience in another reality or world, and (e) VR is a state of mind. Although the nonexperts tended to experience VR as entertainment, the academics were focused on the future “purposeful” applications of VR in society and the ability of individuals to re-create themselves by participating in VR environments. As individuals come to understand the symbol systems and social practices surrounding VR, they are likely to have the knowledge that will enable them to control their interactions in any VR environment.
