Spatial Studies in Augmented, Virtual, and Mixed Reality: Potentials, Challenges, and Requirements

Area of Science:

• Spatial cognition research
• Human-computer interaction
• Virtual reality and augmented reality applications

Background:

• Extended reality (XR) hardware, encompassing virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), presents novel methodologies for spatial research.
• XR enables immersive interaction with spatial environments, surpassing limitations of traditional monitor-based studies.
• It facilitates research in physical environments with virtual overlays or fully virtual settings with enhanced experimental control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the potentials, challenges, and requirements of conducting spatial research using XR hardware.
• To provide guidance on design decisions for XR-based spatial studies.
• To serve as an entry point for researchers developing VR/AR studies.

Main Methods:

• Review and analysis of XR hardware capabilities for spatial research.
• Discussion of inherent trade-offs in XR experiment design (e.g., head-mounted display selection, software tools, locomotion, stimulus presentation).
• Identification of challenges including VR sickness and spatial tracking accuracy.

Main Results:

• XR offers enhanced immersive representation and interaction with spatial environments.
• Successful spatial research with XR requires careful planning, addressing challenges like VR sickness and accurate tracking.
• Design choices significantly impact the quality and feasibility of XR spatial studies.

Conclusions:

• XR hardware provides significant opportunities for innovative spatial research.
• Addressing technical and design challenges is crucial for effective implementation of VR and AR in spatial studies.
• This work offers a foundational overview for spatial researchers engaging with XR technologies.