UTILIZATION OF VIRTUAL REALITY IN SUSTAINABLE TOURISM LEARNING: A STUDY OF SMART ECO-TOURISM DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION IN THE SOUTH COAST

Learning using virtual reality technology provides a more immersive experience for learners. Carocok Painan Beach is one of the leading tourist destinations in Pesisir Selatan Regency, boasting significant natural and cultural potential. However, tourism promotion remains conventional and has not been able to provide an interactive and educational experience to tourists. This study aims to design and build a Virtual Reality (VR)-based Smart Eco-Tourism system as a medium for promoting and educating sustainable tourism. The method used is prototyping, with stages of needs analysis, design, prototype development, and system testing. The system is an integrated Virtual Reality website that displays 3D digital maps, immersive Virtual Tours, and educational content on the environment and coastal conservation. The results show that the VR-based Smart Eco-Tourism system is able to present tourism information more interactively and realistically, increase the attractiveness of destination promotions, and support tourist education and awareness of the concept of sustainable tourism. This system has the potential to become an innovative digital promotional medium for coastal tourism development. It is hoped that through this media there will be an increase in visits to tourist attractions, especially Carocok Beach, thereby contributing to the economy in the region.