Authors:
Miguel A. Feijoo-Garcia
1
;
Yiqun Zhang
1
;
Yiyin Gu
2
;
Alejandra J. Magana
1
;
Bedrich Benes
2
and
Voicu Popescu
2
Affiliations:
1
Department of Computer and Information Technology, Purdue University, 401 N. Grant St., West Lafayette, IN 47907, U.S.A.
;
2
Department of Computer Science, Purdue University, 305 N. University St., West Lafayette, IN 47907, U.S.A.
Keyword(s):
Extended Reality, Educational Technology, Immersive Learning, User Experience, Human-Computer Interaction.
Abstract:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) concepts are abstract and difficult to understand. This paper explores how immersive technologies, such as extended reality (XR), can offer interactive learning experiences that can significantly enhance the educational outcomes of teaching fundamental concepts in artificial intelligence. This comparative study analyzes the effectiveness of an XR environment for introducing Neural Networks and Handwritten Digit Recognition by comparing the engagement, user experience, and learning outcomes of students using XR headsets (Meta Quest 3) to those relying on a traditional desktop setup. Engagement, usability, and user satisfaction were measured using standardized metrics, including the System Usability Scale (SUS), Immersion Presence Questionnaire (IPQ), User Satisfaction Questionnaire (USQ), and Net Promoter Score (NPS), on a diverse group of 56 participants. The findings indicate that the participants in the XR group reported higher levels of engagement and
immersion than those in the desktop setting. Furthermore, they reported higher levels of satisfaction. They were more likely to recommend the experience for educational reasons compared to the users of the Desktop group, suggesting that XR technology increases motivation and may thus improve learning. Nevertheless, XR users recognized restrictions like unease or lack of familiarity with immersive technologies. In addition, this study highlights how XR can help transform science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.
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