Strategies to reduce visual attention changes while learning and training in extended reality environments

Abstract

Computer-Based training (CBT) is a widely used strategy in interactive learning and skills training to provide the trainee with information while in training. Extended Reality (XR) is a set of technologies used in the fourth industrial revolution for this purpose. However, an important XR limitation is the cognitive overload in trainees due to continuous changes in attention. The effects of the changes in attention on cognitive load have been studied in environments such as printed material and desktop PC’s. However, such effects are not yet fully known on XR platforms. This study’s aim was to identify strategies to reduce the changes in attention in instructional/educational materials, which use extended reality to present information to trainees. The presented information can guide the use of combined strategies to reduce the cognitive overload generated by XR display platforms. Therefore, an extensive literature review was carried out. From a set of 1946 articles, 53 studies were selected. The selected studies evaluated the cognitive load in instructional materials that used XR as a visualization platform. The results showed three strategy groups: those associated with the spatial integration of information, those associated with the use of visual features and those associated with the content segmentation. Effects of this strategies in the user performance and user cognitive load are discussed.

Technology-Enhanced Learning in Health Sciences: Improving the Motivation and Performance of Medical Students with Immersive Reality

“…The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by examining student motivation using the IMMS instrument. The results not only support previous findings but also emphasize the positive effect of IR on learning, physical presence [13,16], and student satisfaction in formative experiences [28,42]. Additionally, the study highlights the motivation levels of students in the field of Health Sciences, further reinforcing the significance of incorporating IR and 360 • video in medical education.…”

“…The study also revealed the significance of using "hot spots" within the design of learning objects, aligning with previous research [27,28,64,65]. Incorporating these interactive elements enhances the learning experience and contributes to better understanding and engagement.…”

“…By providing opportunities for students to practice and apply their knowledge in realistic scenarios, these technologies enable the refinement of clinical skills, decision-making abilities, and critical thinking. This, in turn, leads to the cultivation of competent and confident healthcare professionals [28].…”

“…In a related vein, some investigations have focused on optimizing the design of VR technology to improve its performance efficiency [4,26]. Specifically, researchers have explored the effectiveness of incorporating "hot spots", signals, or informative cues to enhance user experience and reduce cognitive load associated with the use of VR [27,28].…”

Visual Coding of Information for Augmented Reality Environments

“…This is accomplished by utilizing multiple multimedia elements such as texts, shapes, illustrations, animations, and audio, among others. The quantity of visual resources used facilitates understanding of the environment and focused attention, which improves user learning performance (Bautista et al, 2022).…”