Social presence as a training resource: comparing VR and traditional training simulations

Abstract

From immersive simulations to interactive tutorials, Virtual Reality (VR) is transforming the way we learn and practise new skills. Especially for social skills training, a growing number of simulations have been designed in which trainees learn to master difficult communicative situations. One of the factors to which the effectiveness of VR as a learning technology is attributed to is the users’ feeling of social presence during the simulated interaction. This paper presents the evaluation of (1) a role play training, (2) a learning app and (3) a VR training application in a workshop series. Social presence was perceived as equally convincing and engaging for the prototypical VR scene as for the traditional form of role play, although the course of the interaction in VR was highly determined compared to the interaction dynamics of a human role play. In our interpretation, this confirms social presence as a valuable resource for training social interaction, which spans across various learning settings and methods in increasingly blended or hybrid learning and working contexts.

Mixed Reality Training for Medical First Responders: System Evaluation and Recommendations

“…This emphasis on enhanced social presence is supported by the literature, which suggests that realistic social interactions in virtual environments can significantly improve learning outcomes by providing learners with experiences that closely mimic real-world scenarios (Biocca, Harms, & Burgoon, 2003). Moreover, studies (Biocca & Harms, 2002;Blascovich et al, 2002;Uhl, Neundlinger, & Regal, 2023) have demonstrated the critical role of immersive social interactions in maintaining user engagement and satisfaction in virtual settings. Our findings underscore the necessity for ongoing improvements in the design of MR training systems, particularly in the development of virtual patients who can provide realistic social cues and interactions.…”

“…Physical presence, or the illusion of being there, is the subjective experience of being in a place or environment, even when one is physically situated in another. Social presence, the illusion of being with others, enhances the user's perception of interacting with real or virtual entities, fostering a sense of community and engagement (see Uhl, Neundlinger, and Regal (2023)). Self-presence, the illusion of self-embodiment within the MR environment, relates to the user's perception of themselves as part of the virtual space, often achieved through avatars or virtual representations.…”