Experiencing virtual reality and visual memory

Abstract

The number of studies investigating different aspects of the use of virtual reality and VR goggles is constantly growing. However, there is currently a lack of analyses related to the visual memory of resources learned in immersive VR. Therefore, a study was conducted to determine the level of memorisation of visual elements presented using VR headsets or a traditional computer. The study involved 120 students divided into three equal groups. In the first group, the participants used VR goggles and the presentation was supervised by a lecturer who drew attention to key elements and monitored the pace of the action. In the second group, users worked entirely on their own with the VR headsets, and in the third group they watched a narrated presentation on a computer screen. The main research objective was to determine the differences in the amount of elements memorised between the study groups. The study used both quantitative and qualitative data. The ANOVA analysis of variance showed that there was a statistically significant difference between all groups. The highest level of memorisation of visual elements was recorded in the group using VR goggles and supervised by a guide. The lowest was in the group that used VR headsets alone. Participants in the study noted that immersive VR is so fascinating that it is difficult for them to supervise their own time and activity in a way that ensures success. As a result, 70% of people working alone with VR goggles did not manage to familiarise themselves with all the material.