2024
Autores
Narciso, D; Melo, M; Rodrigues, S; Cunha, JP; Vasconcelos Raposo, J; Bessa, M;
Publicação
IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON VISUALIZATION AND COMPUTER GRAPHICS
Abstract
How we perceive and experience the world around us is inherently multisensory. Most of the Virtual Reality (VR) literature is based on the senses of sight and hearing. However, there is a lot of potential for integrating additional stimuli into Virtual Environments (VEs), especially in a training context. Identifying the relevant stimuli for obtaining a virtual experience that is perceptually equivalent to a real experience will lead users to behave the same across environments, which adds substantial value for several training areas, such as firefighters. In this article, we present an experiment aiming to assess the impact of different sensory stimuli on stress, fatigue, cybersickness, Presence and knowledge transfer of users during a firefighter training VE. The results suggested that the stimulus that significantly impacted the user's response was wearing a firefighter's uniform and combining all sensory stimuli under study: heat, weight, uniform, and mask. The results also showed that the VE did not induce cybersickness and that it was successful in the task of transferring knowledge.
2024
Autores
Barbosa, L; Moura, JP; Bessa, M; Melo, M;
Publicação
ICGI 2024 - 6th International Conference on Graphics and Interaction, Proceedings
Abstract
[No abstract available]
2026
Autores
Gonçalves, G; Romao, M; Peixoto, B; Bessa, L; Melo, M;
Publicação
IEEE REVISTA IBEROAMERICANA DE TECNOLOGIAS DEL APRENDIZAJE-IEEE RITA
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of virtual agent realism in immersive Virtual Reality (iVR) on foreign-language vocabulary learning. Specifically, it compares the effectiveness of a realistic (human-like) pedagogical virtual agent versus an abstract (non-human-like) one in delivering instructional content. A between-subjects experiment was conducted with 17 participants, divided into two groups, were exposed to either the realistic or abstract agent in an iVR Search-and-Find vocabulary learning task. Learning outcomes were measured using pre- and post-tests (based on word matching translations for 10 German-Portuguese item pairs), while presence-related experiences were assessed via the Igroup Presence Questionnaire and Temple Presence Inventory. Both groups demonstrated significant vocabulary acquisition improvements. However, no significant differences were found between the realistic and abstract agent groups in either learning outcomes or presence scores. The findings suggest that the visual realism of virtual agents may not significantly influence language learning effectiveness or user presence in these iVR environments. These preliminary results imply that abstract agents could be as effective as realistic agents for this type of foreign-language instruction, potentially reducing development resources without compromising learning benefits.
2024
Autores
Sousa, N; Alén, E; Losada, N; Melo, M;
Publicação
JOURNAL OF VACATION MARKETING
Abstract
Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a powerful promotional tool in tourism, providing consumers immersive and engaging experiences. However, its specific impact on the wine tourism sector remains underexamined. This study aims to both investigate and convincingly highlight the promotional influence of VR on the intention to visit wine tourism destinations. By providing an immersive VR experience to 405 participants, our research revealed that the quality of VR experiences is essential for generating consumer satisfaction. More crucially, we found that wine tourists' satisfaction with VR experiences plays a crucial role in motivating them to visit a destination. Our results not only fill a gap in understanding the impact of VR on wine tourist behaviour but also offer valuable insights for marketing professionals and companies in the sector. This study emphasises the critical need for enjoyable, high-quality and satisfying VR experiences to catalyse the intention to visit. In doing so, we contribute to academic knowledge and provide practical guidance for the industry, highlighting VR's effectiveness as a promotional strategy in wine tourism. This research is not merely an exploration but a compelling defense of VR's transformative influence on wine tourist behaviour.
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