Dr. Raquel V. Benitez Rojas

Associated Dean Master of Arts in Digital Media and Global Communications, University of Niagara Falls | Canada

Virtual reality (VR) has roots that extend far beyond the digital age, stemming from humanity’s long-standing desire to create alternate, immersive realities. Early forms of VR, such as panoramic paintings and stereoscopic viewers, laid the groundwork by exploring visual perception and spatial immersion. Throughout the 20th century, key innovations like the Sensorama and head-mounted displays introduced interactive and multi-sensory experiences, eventually leading to practical applications in various fields. This historical progression shows that VR evolved gradually through interdisciplinary efforts, reflecting a continuous quest to expand human experience through simulation.