Customizable smart virtual reality simulations for conversation-based training

The current method of professional development for education personnel typically includes passive learning, such as lectures, followed by interactive learning, such as practicing learned skills with students in the classroom. There exists a gap in education personnel skill acquisition as most forms of professional development focus heavily on the passive learning and fail to provide adequate opportunities for interactive learning. This is a result of many logistical complications that interactive learning produces, such as the need for qualified personnel to set up and oversee the interactions as well as a lack of affordable solutions that provide useful learning opportunities. This thesis provides a novel solution that addresses many of these complications by providing a conversation-based virtual reality simulation that can allow education personnel to rehearse skills and practices learned in the classroom. This system provides a web-based user interface that allows instructors to create the contents of the virtual reality simulations without any virtual reality development. The simulations utilize artificial intelligence to provide feedback to the user reducing the need for instructor intervention. Providing a cost effective and scalable solution to interactive learning could improve the quality of professional development in education personnel and ultimately improve student outcomes.