Hana Ibrić
Supervisor(s): Bojan Mijatović
Sarajevo School of Science and Technology
Abstract: Interaction methods in VR environments is a very potent area for researchers. Lower-body tracking has the potential to increase embodiment and immersion in virtual reality applications. It does so by enabling movement that is more natural. Yet, its impact within educational VR contexts remains underexplored. This paper presents a controlled experimental study comparing lower-body tracking based locomotion using HTC Vive 3.0 trackers with conventional joystick based locomotion. The study was conducted during the creation of VR Trebević, an educational VR hiking game designed to teach basic hiking skills through task based learning. These tasks include correct packing, orientation and basic safety procedures. Alongside this game, an additional application is created which features a similar environment and mechanics for different ways of moving through space and participants were instructed to try out both. User experience is evaluated using a Likert scale questionnaire focusing on perceived immersion related to experience and comfort. This study aims to provide insights on how lower-body tracking influences user perceived immersion in educational VR environments and to support the design of future VR learning applications that rely on embodied movement mechanics.
Keywords: Video Games, VR
Full text: Year: 2026
