Virtual Reality Travel Training Simulator for People with Intellectual Disabilities

Being able to travel in public transportation autonomously is one daily task that doesn’t imply any special effort or learning process for most of the human population. But, for people with intellectual disabilities, it requires an extensive learning process where many possible situations should be considered before the person can perform successfully this task. Currently these people are taught by specialists following supervised learning methodologies in real environments. But, through the use of immersive virtual reality and interaction within a virtual world, they could be trained in a safe environment, increasing their self-confidence in a saver and quicker way. This paper describes the creation of a customized simulator that prepares subjects to use the bus as a means of transportation in a medium-size city. The design of the virtual reality environment and the interaction mechanics is thought to be highly customizable for each subject with a very realistic environment, thanks to the use of photogrammetric digitalization technologies. The environment has been developed in Unreal engine and uses the head mounted display Oculus rift, as well as Oculus touch for interaction with the different assets.