Examining the Effects of Embodiment on Working Memory Performance in VR

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

8-30-2024

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of immersive virtual reality (VR) environments on working memory task performance and the role of embodiment in VR. Sixteen participants engaged in N-back tasks presented either on a computer screen or in VR. Participants were assigned to one of four conditions: non-VR, VR without mimicking, VR with mimicking, or VR with mimicking and virtual mirror. Statistical analyses revealed no significant differences in sense of embodiment or task performance among the VR conditions. Additionally, there were no significant changes in working memory performance across conditions. While the findings suggest that variations in VR setups may not affect embodiment or task performance, the study’s preliminary nature emphasizes the need for larger sample sizes for more conclusive results. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and explore the effects of VR interventions on cognitive outcomes.

Comments

© 2024 Human Factors and Ergonomics Society.

Publication Title

Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1177/10711813241273515

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS