Virtual realities can be understood as a form of models, similar to animations and images. The key characteristics of these models are:
- Three-dimensionality
- Interactivity
- First-person perspective
This list of characteristics can be expanded. The fundamental idea of virtual reality is to create a lifelike environment.
Virtual realities and animations are used to eliminate critical factors in learning. They have instructional applications in areas where it is challenging to create authentic learning situations, such as flight training.
Virtual realities, due to their aim to replicate real-life experiences, are often compared to actual reality. This results in a relatively limited range of applications. Where virtual realities can be applied, they are already indispensable today.