Virtual experiments yield comparable results to physical experiments on evacuation decision-making

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) is fast becoming a key instrument in research on human behaviour in fire. However, reports on the validity of results produced by VR are very limited. In this study we conducted virtual experiments on evacuation decision making, which were later replicated in a real environment. Results of the two sets of experiments (6 trials each) were then compared. We found no significant differences between responses of participants in the virtual experiments and participants in the physical experiments. The results are consistent with recent findings attesting to the possibility to conduct realistic experimentation through VR environments while retaining confidence in the resulting data.