A Wheelchair Locomotion Interface in a VR Disability Simulation Reduces Implicit Bias.

Area of Science:

• Virtual Reality (VR) and Human-Computer Interaction
• Social Psychology and Bias Research
• Disability Studies

Background:

• Implicit biases negatively affect individuals with disabilities.
• Virtual embodiment offers a novel approach to understanding diverse perspectives.
• Previous research lacks studies on virtual embodiment's impact on disability bias.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of virtual embodiment in a wheelchair on implicit bias.
• To assess the effect of virtual instructors with disabilities on bias.
• To evaluate changes in disability-related information recall.

Main Methods:

• A 2x2 between-subjects user study using immersive VR Disability Simulation (DS).
• Participants experienced VR with different instructor types (with/without disability) and locomotion (walking/wheelchair).
• Implicit Association Test (IAT) and knowledge retention tests were administered pre- and post-simulation.

Main Results:

• Experiencing the DS via wheelchair locomotion significantly improved disability-related information recall.
• Virtual embodiment in a wheelchair was more effective in reducing implicit bias compared to other conditions.
• The instructor's disability status did not show a significant independent effect on bias reduction.

Conclusions:

• Virtual embodiment, particularly through wheelchair locomotion, is a promising tool for reducing implicit bias.
• VR simulations can enhance learning and empathy towards people with disabilities.
• Future research should explore long-term effects and diverse disability simulations.