30 July 2010, 10:21 pm
cyBeR mE: A general survey In the context of my research the term 'virtual reality' is used to describe an online community that aims to recreate real or imaginary worlds over the internet. In particular, this includes programs such as 'Second Life', 'World of Warcraft', 'IMVU' and 'Habbo Hotel'. Here is a quick survey. Your honesty is greatly appreciated. 1) Do you feel that people use virtual reality programs (eg. IMVU, World of Warcraft etc) as a method of escaping from reality? Yes No I don't know 2) Do you think it is socially acceptable to use virtual reality programs as a way of escaping problems faced in the real world? Yes No I don't know 3) Virtual reality programs have been compared to be similiar to the highly addictive narcotic drug, heroin in that they can be just as addictive. Do you agree or disagree with this comparison. Agree Disagree I don't know 4) a. Would you ever perform any of the following activities on an online virtual reality program such as second life or IMVU? (please tick appropriate) Gambling ( ) Marriage ( ) Sexual acts ( ) Dating ( ) Clubbing( ) Pay-pal*( ) *use of credit card to purchase clothing, houses, accessories etc. b. Do you believe there should be a limit on the extent that such programs imitate virtual reality? Yes No I don't know 5) Do you feel that consistent use of virtual reality programs damages a persons social skills? Yes No I don't know 6) Do you believe that socialising with people online can increase a persons confidence ie. do you feel that gamers benefit from having this interaction with other gamers? Yes Yes, though I believe they would benefit more from socialising face-to-face No I don't know 7) Do you believe overexposure to virtual reality prorams can be socially damaging? Yes No I don't know 8) How many hours do you believe a person must engage in virtual reality programs before it is considered an 'addiction'. 1+ hours per week 5+ hours per week 10+ hours per week 20+ hours per week 30+ hours per week 50+ hours per week I dont' believe virtual reality programs to be addictive 9) On a scale of 1-10, how significant do you consider the issue of virtual reality programs to be in modern society? less significant more significant 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10) Advertising campaigns for virtual reality programs often include slogans such as "find your soulmate" and "not having fun? simulate it." Do you feel that those responsible for making virtual reality programs target people who are discontent with their lives? Yes In most cases, yes Sometimes but usually not No I don't know Thank you for completing this survey :D... Read More »