Virtual Reality in Education: Addressing School Inaccessibility in Burkina Faso During Crisis
摘要
In the face of an escalating humanitarian and security crisis in Burkina Faso, where nearly one in four schools has been forced to close, the need for alternative educational solutions is critical. This paper presents “UNZLearn”, a virtual reality (VR) platform designed to provide accessible and interactive education to students affected by school closures. Leveraging the advanced technologies, including Blender for 3D modeling, Unity as the game engine, and Meta XR All-In-One SDK for VR capabilities, UNZLearn creates immersive educational environments. Real-time synchronization and multi-user functionality are facilitated through Photon Engine and Photon Fusion2, while Photon Voice enables seamless voice communication. Avatars created with Ready Player Me and motion tracking via Meta Movement SDK enhance user engagement, offering realistic and interactive learning experiences. By enabling students to continue their education amidst crisis, UNZLearn not only addresses immediate educational needs but also builds resilience against future disruptions. This paper discusses the development process, technical implementation, and potential impact of virtual reality in transforming education accessibility in crisis-affected regions.