Visual Coding of Information for Augmented Reality Environments

Abstract

Students have benefited greatly from immersive learning environments that use augmented reality. Some visual features of instructional material, such as color coding, have shown potential in improving learning performance. However, the effect in Immersive Learning Environments is still unknown in detail. The objective of this research is to know how the use of color-coded material affects the performance and mental effort of participants in Immersive Learning Environments in augmented reality. Therefore, an experimental study was executed with 29 students, in a case study for learning an arthroscopy surgical procedure, using an Immersive Learning Environment in augmented reality. The results suggested no differences in the participants' performance in terms of time and percentage of correct answers. Participants who used non-coded material, on the other hand, suggested a high level of mental effort. These results provide valuable information for the design of Immersive Learning Environments, with the purpose of creating environments under conditions that foster learning.