Exploring the Usability of Phone-Based Virtual Reality in Management-Communication Training

Abstract

Abstract Phone-based virtual reality (VR) is a potentially important delivery medium for management communication training, particularly as hybrid work environments create the need for new ways to deliver training experiences where students can role-play and practice privately with virtual employees. However, few studies have focused on the viability of delivering phone-based VR, particularly in terms of understandability and usability. In this preliminary case study, we utilize a proxy group of business school students and study their ability to assemble, navigate, and complete a training module using a phone-based VR system that focuses on management communication training. Overall, the system obtained an excellent mean rating on a common standardized instrument, the System Usability Scale (SUS), and other measures. We also detail concerns of a small but important participant group who gave the system less favorable ratings and delineate modifications that may be appropriate for the intended audience, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) employees.