Simulating discrimination in virtual reality

Have you ever been advised to "walk a mile in someone else's shoes?" Considering another person's perspective can be a challenging endeavor -- but recognizing our errors and biases is key to building understanding across communities. By challenging our preconceptions, we confront prejudice, such as racism and xenophobia, and potentially develop a more inclusive perspective about others. To assist with perspective-taking, MIT researchers have developed "On the Plane," a virtual reality role-playing game (VR RPG) that simulates discrimination. In this case, the game portrays xenophobia directed against a Malaysian America woman, but the approach can be generalized.