Increasing Hiking Safety Education
Through Virtual Reality
2023
Summary
Hiking has become more accessible through media and technology, but crucial safety education is often missing, increasing risks, especially for “new adventurers”—inexperienced hikers with high ambitions but limited preparation. Many do not adequately research gear, trails, or conditions, with increasing accidents and tragedies in Canadian and U.S national parks. Although VR safety simulations and wilderness games exist, there’s no integrated tool focused on hiking education. This proposal is for a gamified outdoor safety training app aimed at 18-25-year-olds new to hiking, teaching wilderness basics and first aid to improve preparedness and reduce risks in North American parks.
Outcome
Concept and research plan for VR application made to teach new adventurers about wilderness safety.
Skills Used
Research, Writing, Communication, Creativity, Problem-Solving