3D Object Training Beyond the 2D Screen: Effectiveness and Experience of Virtual Reality Training for 3D CT Baggage Screening

Airports are adopting 3D computed tomography (CT)-based technologies for cabin baggage screening to replace traditional 2D X-ray systems. We evaluated a novel virtual reality (VR) 3D object training application using photorealistic 3D models and 3D CT images of prohibited items. Psychology students with no 3D CT screening experience were randomly assigned to the desktop VR (n = 16), head-mounted display (HMD) VR (n = 17), or no training (control group; n = 17) groups. Both training groups underwent six 20-minute training sessions over two weeks. Performance was assessed pre- and post-training using X-ray image interpretation tests. Training experience ratings were collected at every other training session. Both desktop VR and HMD VR training improved performance; HMD VR training also fostered more Presence, Interest/Enjoyment, Perceived Competence, Effort/Importance, and Behavioral Intention; however, Interest/Enjoyment decreased after the initial VR training with both training media. This study demonstrates that VR-based 3D object training can significantly enhance performance and user experience, making it a promising tool for airport security screener training.