As the diverse range of study abroad options is increasing, universities are offering more short-term study abroad options which range from 1-8 weeks. Students participating in these programs often spend their initial days or weeks in the country working through the effects of adjusting to an unfamiliar environment, in other words, culture shock. This study aims to utilize virtual reality (VR) as a tool to reduce culture shock prior to participants departing for their short-term study abroad trip.
In this conceptual design, students participate in a hands-on and immersive VR experience that enables them to navigate various physical and social environments that are different from their home environment. These virtual simulations include getting from the airport to their hotel via subway, checking into the hotel, purchasing food at the market, engaging in proper work etiquette, and dining in a restaurant. Upon completion of this pre-trip VR experience, it is expected that the effects of culture shock will be mitigated; thus, students will be able to take full advantage of the study abroad experience.
