The Learning Resources Center of the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine has begun to investigate the potential of virtual reality (VR) as a tool for medical education. We are currently integrating VR with communications, animation, and visualization technologies to form a hybrid learning and training environment. Our program development reflects a curriculum-based strategy with emphasis on instructional objectives and educational outcomes. Demonstrated need, feasibility of a technology-based solution, and appropriateness of resource allocation are primary considerations. As the VR world is built, comparative analyses are being made of control strategies, display options, and interface design.