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Nature Engagement Outcomes of Viewing Nature Through a 360° Video or a Tablet Screen: Randomized Trial
Elena Brambilla1, Karen Stendal2, Vibeke Sundling3
1Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Drammen, Norway.
JMIR Serious Games
|June 16, 2025
Summary
Immersive virtual nature (IVN) using 360° videos can increase university students' nature connectedness and intention for green exercise. Both immersive and non-immersive virtual nature experiences showed similar effectiveness in promoting these outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Psychology
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Digital Health
Background:
- Nature engagement offers significant health benefits but is declining globally.
- University students exhibit low levels of nature engagement.
- Immersive virtual nature (IVN) using 360° videos is a potential solution, but its effectiveness compared to non-immersive media is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effectiveness of immersive virtual nature (IVN) via head-mounted display versus non-immersive virtual nature on a tablet.
- To investigate the impact on university students' nature connectedness, green exercise intentions, and intentions to visit a hiking location.
Main Methods:
- 38 university students were randomized to either an IVN or non-immersive condition.
- Pre- and post-exposure assessments measured nature connectedness, green exercise intention, and visit intention.
- Presence, cybersickness, and actual participation in a hiking tour were also assessed.
Main Results:
- Both IVN and non-immersive conditions significantly increased nature connectedness and intentions for green exercise and visiting the location.
- No significant differences were found between the immersive and non-immersive conditions.
- Higher presence ('being there') correlated with increased nature connectedness and tour attendance.
Conclusions:
- Virtual nature, including 360° videos, shows potential for enhancing nature engagement among university students.
- Both immersive and non-immersive virtual nature experiences can be effective.
- Findings support the use of virtual nature to promote nature connection and related behaviors.
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