Multi-user Virtual Reality (VR) Environments: Immersion and Perceptual Experience during Learning for Neurodivergent Students

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Studentship strategic priority area: Steers (Interdisciplinary)Keywords: Virtual Reality; Neurodiversity; Perception; Psychology; PhilosophyThere is increasing interest in making the world more accessible to neurodivergent people. The term "neurodivergence" refers to individuals whose brain structures differ from the norm, (i.e., people with diagnosed conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dyslexia and/or high levels of associated traits). Estimates of the prevalence of neurodivergence vary, ranging from a conservative 3% (those with diagnosed ASD and ADHD) up to as much as 15% of the UK population. Research suggests that neurodivergence is associated with increased levels of sensory differences, including hypersensitivity (i.e., over- responsiveness) and hyposensitivity (i.e., under responsiveness) to a variety of sensory stimuli (e.g. Robertson & Simmons, 2013; Panagiotidi et al, 2018). One proposed theory of perception in autism, "Perceptual Load Theory", suggests that neurodivergent individuals can process higher levels of complexity of sensory information, meaning that highly complex sensory environments might be preferred. However, this may come at the expense of increased sensory stimulation leading to the unpleasant state of "sensory overload". How do sensory differences affect the accessibility of new pedagogical platforms such as Virtual Reality (VR) environments? This research project aims to develop a new educational VR environment, called the "World of illusions" incorporating configurable audio-visual and pedagogical information content. We will then use our expert knowledge of sensory aspects of neurodivergence to investigate (1) how perceptual complexity and information content and (2) how the number of users and interactivity levels influence learning and immersion levels in single- and multi-user VR. The end result will be improved understanding of the optimal characteristics of information delivery in VR Environments to ensure it is absorbing and pleasant for all potential users.