Task 5 - Systems

In discussing general system concepts, I will explore virtual reality as a system. Virtual reality is immensely important in many business and non-profit settings -- it allows users to experience three dimensional settings through simulation. These simulations are visual for the most part, but some have auditory components. Virtual reality puts the user in another world, imaginary or real, with the same proportions and sizes that they are used to experiencing. Through using virtual reality, users are able to encounter experiences they would not be able to otherwise, this allows for further learning and development in education, healthcare, and scientific areas, among others [1].

Virtual reality is not without its kinks, though. It is often difficult to control image resolution and bandwidth in a virtual reality system, making development difficult sometimes. Some of the devices used in a virtual reality system include database gloves, handheld wands and joysticks, as well as head-mounted displays. Several categories of virtual reality have also been identified, some of these include interaction, artificiality, simulation, and immersion of the entire body. Virtual reality also incorporates feedback, voice recognition and interaction with other users, which furthers the development, exploration, and communication between users. Many movies have incorporated virtual reality, including The Matrix. In addition, virtual reality systems have been therapeutic in helping PTSD victims readjust to life after war, and people suffering from acrophobia, the fear of leaving the house [1].

An example of a virtual reality system creating a real difference is the virtual fieldwork being compiled about the earthquake in Haiti. By using data created by scanning the ground in Haiti, scientists have used a virtual reality system to create a three dimensional map of Haiti which will eventually be able to determine why there was a "lack of surface rupture" uncommon in earth quake history, in Haiti. The system inputs the data it takes in from scanning the ground, processes it, and then output takes place through observation. The virtual reality system receives feedback like any other general system [2].

Another example of a virtual reality system is "The Egyptian Oracle" an avatar-like experience created by students, funded by a non-profit educational organization, which puts users in Egypt's earliest days both visually and with audio. Users are able to walk around and experience this environment as it was [3].

Virtual reality systems are not only useful for entertainment, but for educational, scientific and developmental purposes in many industries. Like all systems, virtual reality goes through processes including input, output, and feedback [1].

[1] Virtual Reality, www.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_reality
[2] Virtual Reality helps reveal key details about Haiti Earthquake, http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/48060375/ns/technology_and_science-science/#.UASgLPVv7vE
[3] A virtual reality history lesson, http://www.northeastern.edu/news/2012/07/oracle/