ABSTRACT
In just the past decade virtual environment (VE) applications have emerged in entertainment, training, education, and other areas (see Chapters 43-55, this volume). In that time extensive research in VE technology has also been conducted. However, the terminology used to characterize this technology is still evolving. In fact, Durlach and Mavor (1995, p. 2) indicate that “inadequate terminology [is] being used” to describe VE technology and its applications. It is thus important to describe the key terms that are used in this handbook. The objective is not to resolve differences between disparate uses (in fact often multiple, even conflicting definitions are presented) but rather to provide a coherent set of commonly used terms. While it is customary to present a glossary at the end of handbooks such as this one, this work starts out with a glossary so that readers may develop a common understanding of the terms used throughout the handbook. Paradoxically, the one term that remains particularly elusive is virtual environment. Many authors, especially those among the application chapters (see chaps. 43-55, this volume) have catered the definition of VE to fit the forms of the technology that best suit their needs. Perhaps this definitional multiplicity demonstrates the versatile nature of VE technology and its wide array of potential uses.
