Abstract

Quantum computing is a promising field but understanding how it works can be challenging for a beginner. There are also not many educational resources to visualize and learn about quantum computing. To advance knowledge in this area, we have created QubitVR, which employs a Bloch sphere representation of a qubit, and supports trajectory visualizations and state equations in a virtual reality (VR) setting. We also conducted a multivariate cognitive walkthrough with subject matter experts (SMEs) on QubitVR to assess the effectiveness of trajectory visualizations and state equations in learning about quantum gates. The results were that trajectory visualizations aided users in understanding and learning the outcomes of quantum gate applications, while state equations did not aid users in understanding or learning the outcomes of gate applications. This implies that when designing quantum educational applications, researchers should consider focusing on visual enhancements like trajectory visualizations while avoiding mathematical representations accompanying the Bloch sphere.

Notes

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Graduation Date

2022

Semester

Spring

Advisor

McMahan, Ryan

Degree

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Department

Computer Science

Degree Program

Computer Science

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

CFE0009000; DP0026333

URL

https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0026333

Language

English

Release Date

May 2022

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

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