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**UPDATE JUNE 8th:

Thank you for your interest in this study. Unfortunately the data collection period of this project has ended now. If you would like to participate in similar studies in future, please contact [email protected] to be added to our contact list.**

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Please read this participation information sheet in full before registering your interest using the link at the bottom of this sheet.

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Title of Project:

The Effects of Haptic Feedback on Behaviour, Subjective Experience, and Task Performance in a Virtual Environment (MODREC Reference: 2431/MODREC/25)

Leading researchers:

Samuel Bateman ([email protected]), Prof Sam Vine ([email protected])

Invitation to take part and brief summary:

Thank you for your interest in this study. We are researching how touch-based feedback affects learning in virtual reality (VR). Please take time to read this information, discuss it with others if needed, and feel free to ask any questions.

Who is doing this research?

This research project is being conducted by the University of Exeter with funding from the UK’s Defence Science Technology Laboratory (DSTL).

What is the purpose of the research?

We are investigating whether two types of haptic (touch-based) feedback can help people to learn better in VR. Haptic feedback refers to any touch-based signal you may feel when using technology, such as a vibrating game controller. As VR is becoming a popular training tool in schools and workplaces, this research will improve our knowledge of how to learn effectively in VR.

Why have I been invited to take part?

We are looking for people aged between 18 and 75 who have normal or corrected-to-normal vision.

Do I have to take part?

No, participation is entirely voluntary.

Are there any direct benefits to me of taking part?

There are no direct benefits to you for participating in this experiment.

What will I be asked to do?

The study will begin with collecting some basic information, including your age, sex, experience with using VR, and your trait anxiety. After this, you will privately put on a heart rate monitor and haptic vest (vest that creates small electrical pulses on the skin). The haptic vest must have direct skin contact, so only bras (excluding sports bras due to upper-back coverage) can be worn underneath the vest. The power of the haptic vest will then be calibrated to suit your body type and sensitivity to electrical stimulation, beginning with the lowest power and gradually increasing. You will then learn how to use the imitation pistol-controller and will be fitted with a VR headset. To improve your aim with the controller, you will do a short target practice exercise. Images of this equipment are on the right.