Cross-Sectional Study Using Virtual Reality to Measure Cognition

Abstract

Dual-task research is limited in its transferability to authentic contexts because laboratory conditions do not replicate real-world physical activity and decision-making scenarios. Creating valid, reliable methodologies to assess physiological and behavioral responses under varying physical and cognitive demands using virtual reality (VR) environment addresses this limitation. This study determined the feasibility of using VR to investigate the effects of dual-tasking on healthy young adults' cognitive performance. Three dual-tasking conditions (i.e., standing, preferred-paced walking, and fast-paced walking, each with blocked congruent and incongruent tasks) were developed. Using a within-subjects, randomized design, thirty-two young adults (17 female, mean age = 21.03 ± 2.86) were randomly assigned to a starting condition but experienced all three conditions. Physiological responses of heart rate (HR) and accelerometry data measured energy expenditure as the physical demand. Behavioral responses of reaction time and error rate quantified cognitive performance. Results indicated that (a) each condition verified independent physiological and behavioral responses; (b) reaction time and error rate during preferred walking or fast-paced walking dual-tasking conditions was significantly lower than standing condition; and surprisingly, (c) congruent tasks showed lower reaction time than the incongruent tasks. These findings suggest that it is feasible to use VR to assess the effects of dual-task conditions. Specifically, walking can optimize the motor-cognitive dual-task performance, compared to standing. These findings may be attributed to the dose-response effects of exercise intensity. Future studies should incorporate advanced technology such as the VR exercise.

Application of virtual simulation technology in sports decision training: a systematic review

“…The research shows that the most widely used training condition is the 360 video system because it can improve decision-making skills to a certain extent ( Jung et al, 2021 ). Compared with building a highly immersive virtual reality environment, the former spends less on equipment and capital requirements and thus is easier to achieve.…”