Comparing desktop 3D virtual reality with web 2.0 interfaces: Identifying key factors behind enhanced user capabilities

• Published in: Heliyon Vol. 10; no. 11; p. e31717
• Main Authors: Sudár, Anna, Csapó, Ádám B.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier Ltd 15.06.2024; Elsevier
• Subjects: 3D environments; cameras; cognition; computer simulation; Desktop VR; Digital workflow effectiveness; education; Human cognitive capabilities; locomotion; Spatial workflow management; 3D environments; Spatial workflow management; Human cognitive capabilities; Desktop VR; Digital workflow effectiveness
• ISSN: 2405-8440; 2405-8440
• DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31717

The aim of this paper is to investigate how commonly used 2D digital layouts can be transformed into 3-dimensional dashboards with the effect of reducing cognitive load. To this end, we compared user performance metrics, pupil dilation data as well as subject-reported qualitative measures in a Web 2.0-based 2D scenario and two different versions of a desktop 3D virtual reality scenario. All three scenarios focused on a use case involving the most prevalent 2D digital formats and designs encountered in digital education, making use of e.g. textual information (PDF files, PPT files), images and videos. Based on the assumption that cognitive load differences can be validated based on pupillometry measurements, we showed that it is possible to develop 3D virtual reality scenarios where users experience less cognitive load while achieving the same performance metrics as in commonly used 2D environments. At the same time, our experiment also showed that such improvements do not come automatically; instead, 3D workflows that require less locomotion – even at the expense of increased camera rotations – seem to result in more effective cognitive load reduction. •Spatial 3D digital environments are often viewed as superior to 2D interfaces for sharing information and knowledge.•However, it is not fully understood when and how these potential benefits of 3D environments can be fully realized.•We compared user performance, eye tracking data and qualitative measures between desktop 3D VR and 2D user interfaces.•Results show that cognitive load can be reduced in 3D environments, if certain design principles are taken into account.•Our conclusions can inform the design of educational and work-related VR spaces that can help reduce cognitive load.