Provided by, Mercy Corps | May 29, 2020
About this Report
The use of virtual reality (VR) for stress and trauma therapy under various conditions is evolving rapidly. Yet, little is known about the potential value that this technology can offer in humanitarian contexts. This report documents the lessons learned from the Field Testing of VR for mindfulness & relaxation Therapy in Iraq.
Purpose
The experiences and insights shared are expected to inspire new humanitarian interventions and opportunities to leverage technology for scalable impact. While VR is a ready-to-go technology, there are nuanced realities to its deployment and application under non-crisis situations, yet the potential benefits are compelling and can provide the required leverage for humanitarian actors to rapidly respond to diverse psychological needs of the vulnerable people that they serve.
About the Author
Julius Adewopo is an Emerging Technology Advisor within Mercy Corps Technology for Development (T4D) Team, and possesses a multi-disciplinary background in agricultural research, digital tool development, and geospatial analytics. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Florida (UF) and his interest includes strategic deployment of digital tools and targeting of innovations to improve livelihoods of vulnerable/marginalized people across diverse geographies. Julius is currently leading Cisco-funded Field Technology Testing Program (FTTP), with focus on supporting diverse field teams to test new and emerging technologies that can enhance their operational efficiency and broaden the impact of programs within and across Countries.
About Mercy Corps
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization powered by the belief that a better world is possible. In disaster, in hardship, in more than 40 countries around the world, we partner to put bold solutions into action — helping people triumph over adversity and build stronger communities from within.
Now, and for the future.
