Xiang Zhang
Thesis Info
Research Interests: Human-computer Interaction, Immersive Environment, User Experience
Thesis Title: Improving Reading for Secondary School Students with Difficulties using Virtual Reality (VR)
Supervisor: Dr Stuart Marshall,
Dr Craig Anslow
Research Abstract:
Among school-age children, approximately 5-15% experience learning difficulties. Children with this developmental issue often find it challenging to adapt to conventional learning methods and face mental health challenges. This persistent obstacle leads to a lifelong struggle with cognitive functioning. Reading difficulties affect 80% of individuals with learning difficulties. They exhibit different eye movements compared with others. Multisensory strategies and technology have demonstrated the ability to enhance cognitive activities, reduce cognitive load, and improve learning effectiveness. This approach also benefits individuals with reading difficulties. Virtual reality (VR) promotes learning and training in various areas. It potentially stimulates extra senses beyond traditional vision, such as spatial cognition, mechanoception, and the emotional sense, which rely on distinct sensory and cognitive processes. However, current virtual reality research lacks studies that support secondary students with reading difficulties, who often need to learn from lengthy texts. This study aims to explore effective design methods using a VR application that enhances reading outcomes for secondary students with reading difficulties. The research design will be guided by a series of experiments examining user behaviour while reading long-form texts and their interaction with VR technology features.
For more details, please visit the personal research homepage: 🌐 VReading 🌐 (Click to enter)
