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Level of presence or engagement in one experience as a function of disengagement from a concurrent experience

Abstract : It is uncertain what effect presence has on virtual environments (VEs) but it is believed to enhance both learning and enjoyment. To date, there exists only subjective methods of measuring the level of presence in VEs. In order to effectively utilize VE technology, it is necessary to gain a greater understanding of presence and the factors that affect it. Therefore, we need to develop a quantifiable method of measuring presence. This metric would provide a framework for design requirements for predictable, repeatable performance in VEs. To investigate a proposed new metric, 70 individuals participated in an experiment based on the dual task paradigm of attention theory. The purpose of the experiment was to determine the level of presence or engagement in one experience as a function of disengagement from a concurrent experience. Participants received two simultaneous experiences, one virtual, the other real, and were given quizzes on each to determine their focus of attention at various stages. Results indicate (1) HMDs occlude all but one of concurring experiences preventing the dividing of attentional resources. (2) Including sound increases the level of engagement in an experience and allows for dividing of attentional resources between concurrent experiences. (3) Responses to previously established presence questionnaires correlate strongly with this new measurement of engagement indicating that this method does have validity. (4) Primed participants exhibit a decrease in levels of engagement in both experiences due to the focus of attention being divided.