McMaster University Psychology Department
DEBRIEFING
INFORMATION SHEET
ESTIMATION OF
DISTANCE TRAVELLED
Kelly Strode
P.I. Contact
Number: 525-9140
ext. 24367 Contact Number: 525-9140 ext.27565
Theory: The current study employs virtual reality technology to examine the ability of human subjects to make distance estimations in the virtual world. The performance of many tasks that might be trained in a virtual environment depends on an accurate estimation of distance. Therefore, it is necessary to calibrate the virtual environment with experiences in the real world in order to demonstrate ecological validity. Previous studies have shown that subjects underestimate traversed distance more in a virtual environment compared to the real world. In the current study, we are examining this phenomenon further with the use of a virtual reality helmet and stationary bicycle. Subjects are required to ride through a hallway and make estimates of the distance they traveled. By varying speed and distance, subjects’ performance on successive trials can provide insight into the variables that affect distance estimation. We are also interested in examining the role of optic flow (dynamic visual information received when subjects move in an environment).
Hypothesis: In general, it is expected
that subjects will underestimate traversed distances in the virtual environment.
Increasing the speed of movement should cause subjects to more dramatically
underestimate the distance traveled, while decreasing the speed of movement
should cause subjects to perceive the distance traveled as longer.
Independent Variables: Length of traversed segment
Speed of movement
Dependent Variables: Percentage distance estimation
Experimental Design: 19 X 10 Within-Subject,
Repeated Measures Design