Table 1 The three main features of the scene design in the VR course

Visual impairment experience

Special-effect lens filter

1. Cataracts

2. Macular degeneration

3. Glaucoma

Students experience the inconvenience of visual impairment common in older adults

Barrier-free living environment and assistive devices

VR environment with four main living spaces and 20 items* of AT

1. Walk around freely to observe the design of the space

2. Text-based explanation interface of items of AT

3. Virtual character using items of AT

Students experience age-friendly living spaces and learn about assistive devices from first-person perspective

Interactive experience

Physiological responses of the virtual character

1. Blinked and looked at the students regularly

2. Neck and head moved slightly to face the students

3. Mouth moved when the character was speaking

Students engage in natural interactions, providing a real-world experience