Virtual versus Physical Classrooms - The Influence Learning Environment has on Training University Students' Employability Skills

Universities usually support students with employability (i.e., interview) skills development using video content during classes. The reason for searching for alternative learning approaches is mainly because of a lack of engagement from both staff and students. 3D full immersive VR application and 2D desktop computer simulations have previously been found to provide an effective alternative learning environment keeping students and staff engaged with the learning and teaching process. This study explores whether the independent learning environment using a 3D fully immersive application could enhance undergraduate students learning of interview skills compared to an independent use of the 2D desktop application and video presentation resources in a class environment. Students and staff took part in three different learning conditions (3D full immersive application, 2D desktop application and video in class), where participants' employability skills, user experience and presence were assessed. University staff rated the 3D fully immersive learning condition better for employability skills training, presence and user experience compared to the 2D desktop environment and lecture conditions. Students, on the other hand, found the 3D immersive application to be a more enjoyable experience than the other two learning conditions but no learning environment was significantly better than another. This raises a question regarding the integration of 3D fully immersive systems in class for employability training