Immersive technologies for renewable energy systems: Enhancing user engagement and understanding

AlQallaf, Noor H.M.Y.E. (2025) Immersive technologies for renewable energy systems: Enhancing user engagement and understanding. PhD thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

Renewable energy, particularly solar energy, is a rapidly expanding field that is poised to address pressing global energy challenges. As energy demands rise, preparing future generations to leverage solar energy becomes important. However, traditional teaching methods in solar energy system design using simulations often offer limited practical interaction, poor integration of theoretical and practical learning and low learner engagement and motivation.

Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a transformative technology for training and learning across various sectors due to its ability to replicate real-world scenarios and enhance user experience through immersive and interactive environments. This thesis investigates the application of VR in designing solar energy systems using computer based simulations, aiming to improve conventional methods by harnessing the “feeling of presence” unique to VR, which has been shown to promote high learner engagement. Therefore, the primary contributions of this research include:
• The development of innovative VR visualisations tailored for solar energy system design, enhancing the comprehension and interaction with complex solar configurations.
• A robust framework for evaluating VR applications in educational settings, focusing on engagement, enjoyment and technology acceptance.
• Guidance for developers and designers to optimise VR applications that aim to promote sustainability, thereby enriching the user experience and educational outcomes.

Methodologically, my thesis used a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the effectiveness of these VR environments. I incorporated qualitative data from surveys alongside quantitative physiological data gathered from wearable sensors and eye-tracking technology to assess user engagement and cognitive load. My findings show a strong user preference for integrating VR into solar energy system design, with significant improvements in understanding solar energy systems attributed to VR’s interactive and visual capabilities. Participants reported higher levels of engagement and interest when using VR compared to traditional learning methods.

In conclusion, my thesis demonstrates the potential of VR as a pivotal educational tool in the renewable energy sector, offering an immersive alternative that could replace conventional teaching methods and substantially enhance learner engagement and comprehension.

• Item Type: Thesis (PhD)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Subjects: T Technology > T Technology (General)
• Colleges/Schools: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering
• Supervisor's Name: Ghannam, Professor Rami and Hussain, Professor Sajjad
• Date of Award: 2025
• Depositing User: Theses Team
• Unique ID: glathesis:2025-85000
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 08 Apr 2025 08:38
• Last Modified: 08 Apr 2025 08:42
• Thesis DOI: 10.5525/gla.thesis.85000
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/85000

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