Cognitive Cost of Using Augmented Reality Displays
This paper presents the results of two cognitive load studies comparing three augmented reality display technologies: spatial augmented reality, the optical see through Microsoft HoloLens, and the video see through Samsung Gear VR. In particular, the two experiments focused on isolating the cognitive load cost of receiving instructions for a button pressing procedural task. The studies employed a self assessment cognitive load methodology, as well as an additional dual task cognitive load methodology. The results showed that spatial augmented reality led to increased performance and reduced cognitive load. Additionally, it was discovered that a limited field of view can introduce increased cognitive load requirements. The findings suggest that some of the inherent restrictions of head mounted displays materialize as increased user cognitive load.
IEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics