Cognitive Load during First Contact with Mixed Reality Learning Environments

Abstract

Mixed Reality (MR) is a growing field in educational settings with increasing importance. Nevertheless, little research has been done so far on howto design a user friendly first contact with this technology. Therefore, this study investigates the challenges and problems that arise when using MR with little to no experience and focuses on the cognitive load of the participants. For this purpose, three tasks are first performed in the natural environment using physical dice, which are then performed by the same participants in MR with virtual dice. Questionnaires are used to assess cognitive load. The problems and challenges are addressed with semi-structured interviews. As a result, a significant increase in cognitive load is observed from the first run (non-MR) to the second run (MR), which is underpinned by the number of challenges encountered. Therefore, further research of the reasons for the increase in cognitive load is needed in order to counteract it with an appropriate design of Mixed Reality Learning Environments.