Interchanging the Mode of Display Between Desktop and Immersive Headset for Effective and Usable On-line Learning

Abstract

In this new era of “untact”, the on-line solutions for social gatherings and meetings have become important more than ever. In particular, immersive 3D VR based environments have emerged as a possible alternative to the video based tele-conferencing solutions for their potential improved learning effects. However, the usability issues stand in its way for it to be fully spread and utilized by the mass. In this poster, we study for another alternative, the mixed usage of desktop (or equally 2D video tele-conferencing) and immersive modes as necessary. The desktop mode is convenient for the user and allows the usual interaction in the most familiar way (e.g. note taking), while the immersive mode offers a more direct contact and interplay among the teacher and other learners. We conducted a pilot experiment comparing the user experience among the three modes: (1) desktop, (2) I3D VR/HMD and (3) mixed. For the mixed mode, we designed a flexible fixture for conveniently wearing/donning the head-set and switch between the desktop and I3D mode quickly. Partici- pants much preferred the mixed mode usage due to the aforementioned ad- vantages of bringing the bests of both worlds.