Application of virtual reality technology to the assessment and training of powered wheelchair users
Anne L. Harrison, Gary Derwent, A. Enticknap, F. David Rose, Elizabeth A. Attree · 2000
The current study presents quantitative and qualitative data concerning the development and application of two non-immersive virtual environments (VEs) to the assessment and training of adult powered wheelchair users with complex neurological impairments. Aspects of manoeuvrability skills and route-finding were addressed. Results indicated that whilst the participants considered the VEs to be realistic and well represented, and the tasks reflected the skills needed to manoeuvre a powered wheelchair, completing the manoeuvrability tasks was more challenging in the VE than in real-life. Implications of these findings are discussed. Additional data are provided from two patients who commenced a series of training sessions using the manoeuvrability skills VE.