Goody Two Shoes Media

So I finally did the unboxing of the google cardboard that I ordered last December, after getting one that had been distributed at GDC (Game Developers’ Conference). The experience has been interesting and while not on par with the experience in the Oculus or the Samsung Gear, for the price, it is pretty impressive.

A few things I have noticed:

1. While putting the thing together is not rocket science, it is not exactly intuitive either….I tested this hypothesis beyond my own experience by giving one to my students and one to my colleagues, all of whom had moderate struggle with the process.
2. The comfort level of the cardboard is limited…it is, after all, putting cardboard on your face.
3. The similarity to much more expensive interfaces is pretty good.  This means that it would be a good way to prototype an idea for VR experiences

It is worth noting that the concept of using one’s smartphone for VR predates the Google cardboard and the Samsung Gear, as researchers, such as Mark Bolas and Suma at USC have been writing about smartphone based VR systems for some time now.  It is always exciting to see things pass the barrier between research and practice, so I am definitely on board with the commercialization of these opportunities.  I just hope that as we integrate the tech, we don’t forget the lessons that science has told us about these experiences.  Specifically, to make them usable, intuitive, safe, and minimally cognitively complex.  This may translate into additions to the cardboard that make it a little less uncomfortable to wear, a little easier to assemble, or even including the option of delivery of the interface already assembled.  These small improvements would make this a technology that could bring VR to classrooms across america with just a $15 device and an unused smart phone.  Talk about a way to introduce kids to the power of STEM education!!!!