Integrating Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence in Agricultural Planning: Insights from the V.A.I.F.A.R.M. Application

The V.A.I.F.A.R.M. (Virtual and Artificial Intelligence for Farming and Agricultural Resource Management) app explores the integration of collaborative virtual reality (VR) with generative artificial intelligence (AI), specifically utilizing ChatGPT, to enhance educational approaches within agricultural management and planning. This study aims to investigate the educational outcomes associated with the combined use of VR and AI technologies, with a particular focus on their impact on critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative learning among university students engaged in agricultural studies. By employing VR, the project creates a simulated agricultural environment where students are tasked with various management and planning activities, offering a practical application of theoretical knowledge. The addition of ChatGPT facilitates interactive, AI-mediated dialogues, challenging students to tackle complex agricultural problems through informed decision-making processes. The research anticipates findings that suggest an improvement in student engagement and a better grasp of complicated agricultural concepts, attributed to the immersive and interactive nature of the learning experience. Furthermore, it examines the role of VR and AI in cultivating essential soft skills critical for the agricultural sector. The study contributes to the understanding of how collaborative VR and generative AI can be effectively combined to advance educational practices in agriculture, aiming for a balanced evaluation of their potential benefits without overstating the outcomes.