The Impact of Virtual Transition Spaces on Learning Engagement and Memory Retention

Abstract

The impact of VR transition spaces on learning measures such as engagement, time in learning environments, and memory retention is a key area for study. While existing research often focuses on bounded VR environments, few studies evaluate transition spaces in VR learning contexts. This study fills that gap by assessing how the presence and placement of transitions influence engagement and memory retention. In our study, participants were divided into four groups—No Transition, Transition-In, Transition-Out, and Transition-In-and-Out—and assessed on performance in a VR learning task. Results showed a clear advantage in memory retention and engagement for groups experiencing transitions before learning. These findings highlight the potential for strategically placed VR transition spaces to serve as cognitive primers, preparing learners for more effective information processing and retention. Future research should expand on these results by exploring diverse content, broader learner demographics, and additional learning measures including critical thinking and long-term retention.