In the program, the participant sustains a concussion during a simulated high school sporting event such as a football game. They then go through the Symptoms Simulator, which allows them to experience the effects of the concussion later in life. There are versions for multiple sports, as well as for coaches and parents. The purpose of the program is to teach athletes, and the people around them, how to protect themselves from brain injuries and to properly diagnose and treat an injury when it occurs.
“VR is an incredibly powerful medium with proven ability to increase empathy and change behavior,” said TeachAids CEO Piya Sorcar. “We hope that these educational materials will provide young [athletes] with the knowledge and tools necessary to keep themselves safer.”