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Yiping Yang

User Experience Design MSc

Postgraduate UX researcher focused on immersive technologies and cognitive experience design.

The effect of immersive technology on short-term memory retention of information.



This project investigates how immersive technology influences short-term memory retention in the context of cultural learning. Participants were asked to complete the same tasks across three different experiences: a virtual reality (VR) room based on Van Gogh’s Bedroom, an augmented reality (AR) mobile interface, and a traditional 2D web-based guide.

Each prototype presented visual and spatial information, requiring users to view, read, and remember key elements. By comparing quiz scores and cognitive load ratings using NASA-TLX, this study explores how different levels of immersion affect memory performance.

The findings offer insight into the design of interactive educational tools that blend culture, cognition, and immersive interaction

Design objectives

Design and evaluate three culturally themed environments with varying degrees of immersion:

• A virtual reality (VR) scene based on Van Gogh’s The Bedroom 

• An augmented reality (AR) mobile experience based on Van Gogh’s Café Terrace at Night 

• A two-dimensional web version based on Van Gogh’s The Langlois Bridge 

These environments aim to investigate how different interaction modes influence users’ memory retention and cognitive load during cultural navigation tasks. To ensure experimental comparability, participants completed identical tasks across all three conditions. The VR and AR prototypes were developed using ShapesXR and Unity, while the two-dimensional interface was tested as a browser-based simulated interface under controlled conditions.

Experimental groups: VR prototype immersive 3D museum room
Experimental groups: AR prototype 1:1 overlay of artwork


Research Focus

To assess the effect of different immersive technology（VR vs AR）on memory retention and cognitive load


Challenges & Opportunities


Experimental Procedure

  1. Pre-task survey Collected demographics, tech familiarity, and cultural background.
  2. Interaction phase (×3)
    • Used one prototype (VR / AR / 2D)
    • Completed 3-question memory quiz
    • Rated cognitive load using NASA-TLX
  3. Post-task interview Gathered qualitative feedback on experience and preferences.

Key findings

Although VR and AR demonstrated marginally higher memory accuracy than the web version, the difference was not statistically significant.

• Participants experienced the least cognitive load when using VR, followed by AR, with the web version imposing the greatest cognitive burden.

• VR and AR environments proved more effective at stimulating user engagement and immersion, though these were accompanied by physical discomfort such as dizziness and fatigue.

• The traditional web version presented clearer information with high readership, yet offered a monotonous experience and lower engagement.

• Immersive technologies proved more effective at boosting engagement and reducing subjective cognitive load, though usability and comfort must be balanced.

Prototype 1-Virtual Reality Task – Van Gogh’s Bedroom

A VR memory task set in Van Gogh’s The Bedroom, allowing participants to explore the space and recall visual details through immersive interaction.

Prototype 2-Augmented Reality Task – Van Gogh’s Night Café

An AR memory task based on Van Gogh’s Café Terrace at Night, guiding participants to view, read, and recall visual and spatial details using mobile interaction.

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