Software to Train Scuba Dive Procedures

Abstract

Safety procedures are explained during lectures in basic diving courses, but these rules are often counterintuitive and difficult to remember; many accidents occur because divers do not put into practice what they have been taught. Problems also occur in discovery dives made by tourists who receive quick instructions and who are accompanied by an instructor. Accident rates are higher during basic courses and discovery dives than they are in other types of recreational diving. A virtual environment (VEST) was developed that simulates the more common accidents, provides feedback when procedures are not followed and shows the death of characters to educate divers about the need to comply with safety procedures and to reduce learning time. Evaluations were conducted with 120 participants. Of these participants, 60 received only theoretical instruction, and 60 received the same instructions, as well as VEST support. A purpose-built virtual environment and questionnaires were used to evaluate learning and behavior. The usability and interfaces were considered to be satisfactory. Volunteers who received lessons and instructions that were supported by the developed VEST exhibited better results than did those who only received theoretical instruction. There was, however, no statistically significant difference between the groups receiving complete and superficial theoretical instruction. The method provided proved efficient, enjoyable and easy to learn and made divers aware of the importance of following safety procedures. The good results achieved by VEST in supporting learning does not necessarily mean that the user will put this learning into practice, but the results do demonstrate that it is a better form of learning than verbal instruction.