SportsHCI Research
An Investigation into the Influence of Embodied Agents on the Social Presence Between Humans in Virtual Reality Rowing
This paper explores how embodied virtual agents impact social presence in VR rowing simulations. Through an experimental study with 22 participants using RP3 rowing machines and VR headsets, we found that an embodied coxswain significantly increases perceived social presence compared to a non-embodied agent. Our findings offer insights into designing realistic virtual coaches for collaborative VR sports, enhancing user engagement and training effectiveness.
Executive Impact
Our AI analysis reveals quantifiable benefits:
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Increased Social Presence
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Enhanced Engagement
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Improved Training Effectiveness
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Greater User Motivation
Deep Analysis & Enterprise Applications
Select a topic to dive deeper, then explore the specific findings from the research, rebuilt as interactive, enterprise-focused modules.
Virtual Reality (VR) is increasingly adopted for immersive training and simulation across various industries. This study showcases its potential in sports, particularly in rowing, by integrating embodied agents to enhance social interactions and user presence in digital environments. VR offers unparalleled realism and engagement, crucial for effective skill development and team coordination.
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) plays a pivotal role in designing intuitive and effective VR experiences. Our research explores how agent embodiment, specifically a virtual coxswain, influences perceived social presence and user engagement. This highlights the importance of anthropomorphic design and realistic interaction cues for fostering stronger human-computer and human-human connections within virtual settings, advancing the field of collaborative HCI.
Sports technology is revolutionized by VR, offering new avenues for training and performance enhancement. This study focuses on rowing, a team sport demanding high coordination and communication. By demonstrating how an embodied virtual coxswain boosts social presence, we illustrate a novel approach to improving team dynamics and coaching effectiveness in virtual sports environments, paving the way for more realistic and engaging digital sports experiences.
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Participants preferred embodied agents
Enterprise Process Flow: VR Rowing Simulation
User engages with VR headset & ergometer
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Virtual environment loads (boat, water, coxswain)
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Embodied coxswain provides real-time coaching
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Participant perceives enhanced social presence
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Improved engagement & training outcome
| Feature | Embodied Coxswain | Non-embodied Agent |
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| Perceived Social Presence |
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| Perceived Anthropomorphism |
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| Impact on User Experience |
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Case Study: Enhancing Team Training in VR Rowing
Challenge: Traditional indoor rowing often lacks the social interaction and team dynamics of on-water rowing, impacting motivation and training effectiveness. Existing VR solutions primarily focus on individual performance feedback, overlooking crucial social presence aspects.
Solution: Implemented an embodied virtual coxswain with realistic movements, facial expressions, and vocal cues in a VR rowing simulation. This agent actively guided and motivated rowers, fostering a sense of shared presence and team coordination.
Outcome: Participants using the embodied coxswain reported a significant increase in perceived social presence and a higher sense of anthropomorphism. They found the embodied agent more engaging and motivating, leading to a more realistic and enjoyable team training experience in VR. This demonstrates the potential of embodied AI agents to bridge the gap between virtual and real-world collaborative sports.
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AI Implementation Roadmap
Our phased approach ensures a smooth and successful AI integration.
Phase 01: Discovery & Strategy
We begin with a deep dive into your current VR training processes and team dynamics. This phase involves detailed consultations to understand your specific needs, challenges, and goals, allowing us to co-create a tailored AI strategy that aligns with your enterprise objectives.
Phase 02: Design & Prototyping
Based on the discovery, we design and prototype the embodied AI agents, focusing on realistic behaviors, vocal cues, and interaction models. This includes developing initial VR environments and integrating hardware (e.g., haptics, motion tracking) to ensure seamless user experience.
Phase 03: Development & Integration
Full-scale development and integration of the AI-powered VR training system. We implement robust software, refine agent intelligence, and integrate it with your existing infrastructure. Rigorous testing is conducted to ensure stability, performance, and compatibility across all components.
Phase 04: Training & Deployment
Comprehensive training for your team on how to effectively utilize the new VR training system. Once your team is proficient, we deploy the solution, ensuring a smooth transition and immediate impact on your training programs. Ongoing support and optimization are also provided.
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