This study investigates the impact of virtual reality (VR) as an educational tool in the food industry, comparing it to traditional methods like videos and written materials in teaching hygiene and safety. VR offers immersive, realistic training that allows employees to simulate food-handling scenarios, including handwashing, hazard identification, and emergency responses, which may enhance engagement and effectiveness. The study aims to clarify the advantages and limitations of VR-based education against traditional approaches by assessing learning effectiveness, usefulness, playfulness, ease of use, and long-term knowledge retention.

Participants will be assigned to one of the three educational methods (VR, video, or written materials) and evaluated through pre-tests, post-tests, and follow-up assessments one month later. Non-parametric statistical analysis, specifically the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, will assess the effectiveness of each educational method based on test scores and satisfaction surveys.

The study will be conducted at Fu Jen Catholic University's Department of Nutrition, following ethical guidelines and informed consent protocols to protect participants' welfare and data privacy. Professional supervision and carefully maintained equipment will ensure a safe learning environment, with adverse reactions monitored and documented throughout.

Virtual Reality (VR) is a rapidly evolving field with immense potential in education. In recent years, aside from medical education, VR is also growing in the food industry. Using VR, employees can receive realistic, immersive training experiences, enabling them to learn knowledge in hygiene and safety. The purpose of this shift in educational methods is to enhance the effectiveness of training for professionals. By using VR, employees can simulate real-life scenarios in restaurant, including tasks such as handling ingredients, practicing proper handwashing procedures, identifying and resolving potential hazards, and responding to emergency situations. VR in hygiene and safety education offers numerous benefits to the food industry. Therefore, this study aims to explore whether VR can replace or complement traditional educational methods in original course. By using different educational methods, including VR, videos, and written materials, the study seeks to clarify the advantages and disadvantages of traditional education and technology-based education. Building on the original course, this study compares the learning effectiveness, usefulness, playfulness, ease of use, and long-term knowledge retention of these three educational methods.

The statistical method planned for this study is non-parametric analysis, specifically the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, to analyze the participants' data. The evaluation of results will focus on the learning effectiveness assessment, with the primary evaluation indicators being the scores from the pre-test, post-test, and VR post-test. One month later, a re-evaluation of knowledge retention will be conducted. In the satisfaction survey, the main aspects assessed will be usefulness, playfulness, ease of use.

This study will first use a written consent form to ensure that participants fully understand the study's purpose, procedures, potential risks, and benefits. The consent form will include the following key information: the purpose of the study, the research procedures and possible risks, privacy protection measures for participants, voluntary participation, and the right to withdraw from the study at any time.

The researchers will explain the study plan in detail to the participants during the initial meeting and answer any questions they may have. This activity will take place in a classroom at Fu Jen Catholic University's Department of Nutrition. Participants will have sufficient time to read and understand the consent form thoroughly, and they will be able to ask questions before signing it. There will be two copies of the consent form: one for the participant to keep and another for the research team to archive, ensuring the safety and protection of participants. This study will ensure that all instructional activities are conducted under professional supervision, using well-tested and properly maintained equipment. While using the VR equipment, participants will be guided by trained professionals to avoid any discomfort or injuries that may result from improper use. If participants experience any adverse reactions during the study, such as dizziness, eye fatigue, or emotional discomfort, their participation will be immediately halted, and on-site personnel will provide an initial assessment and appropriate care. All adverse events will be documented and reported to the study principal investigator. If necessary, further evaluations will be conducted to determine if adjustments to the study protocol or procedures are required.

This study will strictly adhere to personal data protection regulations to ensure the confidentiality and security of all participants' information. Participants' identities will not be disclosed in any research reports or publications. These measures will help ensure that the study complies with ethical guidelines, respects the rights and welfare of participants, and addresses any potential adverse reactions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• native Chinese speakers
• normal vision, hearing, and hand mobility

Exclusion Criteria:

• in other VR-related studies
• symptoms of dizziness when wearing a virtual reality headset
• have taken courses in food service or food hygiene and safety