Abstract:

This study investigates an immersive virtual reality (VR) learning experience, ChemVR, designed to support undergraduate students' understanding of spatially demanding topics in introductory organic chemistry, including stereochemistry, chirality, electron movement in mechanisms, and molecular conformations. Twenty-eight undergraduates completed a structured ChemVR session, followed by a post-experience survey that captured usability, perceived learning, and implementation preferences. Because many core ideas in organic chemistry depend on three-dimensional (3D) reasoning, the experience prioritized manipulable molecular models, guided tasks, and brief audio prompts.

Participants reported limited prior exposure to VR, yet adoption was smooth: most rated the onboarding tutorial helpful or very helpful, and the headset physically comfortable. A 5-point Likert evaluation indicated strong perceived benefits of learning. Across statements, agreement (Agree + Strongly Agree) was high for “helped visualize 3D conformations,” “improved drawing of molecular structures,” “increased understanding of previously confusing concepts,” “more interesting than traditional molecular modeling techniques,” and “would recommend to other students.” Most learners completed the activities in 10–30 minutes, suggesting the module is feasible within standard laboratory or tutorial time slots.

Open responses highlighted initial controller orientation and scene navigation as minor pain points that diminished with brief practice. Students requested slightly longer practice time, clearer controller cues, and an option to borrow headsets outside class to reinforce concepts. Overall ratings were predominantly Good to Excellent, and learners endorsed broader use of VR across chemistry courses.

Findings indicate that a short, well-scaffolded VR session can provide meaningful support for 3D conceptualization in organic chemistry for students with little or no prior VR experience. Practical implications include pairing concise, hands-on tutorials with targeted chemistry tasks, providing brief controller rehearsal, and offering flexible access for additional practice. Future work will incorporate performance measures and compare ChemVR with conventional visualization tools.

Keywords:

Virtual reality, Immersive learning, Spatial Organic chemistry, Molecular visualization.