Acceptance of virtual reality: Factors explaining the private use of virtual reality

Doctoral examination procedure finished at: Doctoral examination procedure at University of Münster

Start date of doctoral examination procedure: 01/04/2018

End date of doctoral examination procedure: 31/03/2021

Name of the doctoral candidate: Janzik, Robin

Doctoral subject: Kommunikationswissenschaft

Doctoral degree: Dr. phil.

Awarded by: Department 06 - Education and Social Studies

Virtual reality (VR) is regarded as a technology that could revolutionize journalism, education, therapy, business, and media use. However, with regard to private use, one problem is that VR does not live up to the expectations for its diffusion. Under the assumption that this is due to a lack of acceptance and trust, the dissertation examines factors that explain the use of VR. Empirical studies contribute to the understanding which characteristics of the person, the technology and the social environment facilitate or hinder the use of the medium. Thus, the thesis provides insights into the societal role VR will play in the future.