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Effect of immersive visualization technologies on cognitive load, motivation, usability, and embodiment.
N Wenk1, J Penalver-Andres1, K A Buetler1
1Motor Learning and Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
Virtual Reality
|March 14, 2023
Summary
Immersive virtual reality (VR) using head-mounted displays (HMDs) enhances motivation and usability for 3D motor training compared to traditional screens. VR and augmented reality (AR) HMDs also improve embodiment, crucial for better motor performance.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation technology
- Human-computer interaction
- Motor neuroscience
Background:
- Virtual reality (VR) shows promise for motor (re)learning.
- Current VR systems often use 2D screens, limiting depth cues and potentially increasing cognitive load.
- Reduced immersion may negatively impact motivation and embodiment, key factors in motor performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the benefits of immersive technologies, specifically head-mounted displays (HMDs), for motor training.
- To compare immersive VR (IVR), augmented reality (AR), and traditional 2D screens in terms of cognitive load, motivation, usability, and embodiment.
- To assess the suitability of HMDs for clinical implementation in VR-based therapy.
Main Methods:
- An experiment involving 20 healthy participants performing simultaneous 3D motor reaching and cognitive counting tasks.
- Comparison of three visualization technologies: IVR HMD, AR HMD, and a standard 2D computer screen.
- Post-task questionnaires assessing cognitive load, motivation, technology usability, and embodiment.
Main Results:
- Cognitive load did not significantly differ across the three visualization technologies.
- Immersive VR (IVR) HMDs were rated as more motivating and usable than both AR HMDs and the 2D screen.
- Both IVR and AR HMDs led to higher levels of embodiment compared to the 2D screen.
Conclusions:
- Immersive VR (IVR) HMDs are more suitable than 2D screens for training 3D movements, enhancing user motivation and embodiment.
- Augmented reality (AR) HMDs also improve embodiment, but further research is needed to determine if observed limitations are technology-specific.
- Findings support the use of HMDs to improve the effectiveness of VR-based motor rehabilitation.
