Research Trends in Virtual Reality and Sport Studies: A Google Scholar Database Review

Abstract

Abstract

Virtual reality and sports-related research have recently garnered significant attention, each yielding specific insights in distinct domains. The present investigation relied on a thorough exploration of the Google Scholar database, encompassing scholarly works such as journal articles, conference papers, theses, dissertations, and academic books, spanning the years 2010 to 2023. The search honed in on articles with titles featuring "virtual reality" and "sport." Following the collection and analysis of identified articles, a word cloud was generated from their titles, revealing 429 prominent words. Notably, the top three words—excluding commonplace terms like "virtual," "reality," and "sport"—comprised technology, training, and application. These findings underscore the intricate nature of the relationship between virtual reality and sports. Consequently, a comprehensive exploration of this relationship through a literature review sheds light on its multifaceted aspects. A visual representation of significant elements in the field is offered by a word cloud derived from related article titles. Clearly, sustained research endeavors and technological progress are imperative to fully harness the potential and advantages presented by this dynamic intersection. Looking ahead, a deeper comprehension of the synergy between virtual reality and sports is poised to catalyze innovative applications and transformative experiences in both realms. Thus, the present study contributes to the ongoing discourse on the convergence of sports and virtual reality, encouraging researchers to approach these issues with an open-minded perspective. It is crucial to note that to fully exploit the benefits and possibilities of this dynamic intersection, additional research and technological advancements are indispensable.

Keywords: Virtual Reality, Sport Studies, Technology, Innovation, Communication.