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Are augmented reality instructions better? : Comparing the effects of AR instructions and paper instructions to guide an assembly task

Yang, Yumeng (2018) Are augmented reality instructions better? : Comparing the effects of AR instructions and paper instructions to guide an assembly task.

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Abstract:Augmented Reality (AR) has gained increasing attention as a means to provide user support and assistance in the domain of manufacturing assembly. To date, the usefulness of mobile AR instructions used in assembly contexts has not been systematically investigated and there are very few empirical studies. This research aims to bridge the gap by comparing a paper-based manual to a mobile AR manual. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the usability and users’ perception of a mobile AR instruction in guiding assembly tasks. Method: A mobile AR instruction and a paper-based instruction for a LEGO assembly task were created. 72 participants were recruited. They were divided into 2 groups randomly, namely, a paper-based group and an AR group. Participants had a training session so as to familiarize themselves with instructions firstly. They were then required to finish a LEGOTM assembly task with the assigned instruction to measure effectiveness and efficiency, fill in the questionnaires to evaluate perceived cognitive load, motivation, and instruction experience. All participants were observed by the researcher. Finally, a short semi-structured interview was performed. Result: Although the mobile AR instruction did not show significant differences in overall cognitive load, it increased the participants’ mental demand and satisfaction of performance when compared to paper instructions. In addition, the AR instruction improved task effectiveness significantly. Furthermore, the mobile AR instruction increased users’ positive experience significantly such as the feelings of playful, surprised, and joyful. However, this mobile AR instruction did not show significant differences in efficiency, and motivation when compared with a paper instruction. Conclusion: This research suggested that current mobile AR instructions are indeed capable of improving task performance and improve the positive experience of users. At least, this study has shown that for people who have no prior experience with an assembly task, AR instructions increase their task accuracy and positive experience. It is advised that designers of assembly instructions consider the mobile AR instruction as an alternative version.
Item Type:Essay (Master)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:05 communication studies, 70 social sciences in general
Programme:Communication Studies MSc (60713)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/76543
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