Study on the comparison of perceptions of spatial distances: Virtual reality versus natural environment

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to compare different contexts of distance assessment (virtual room vs. real room) at the level of perception of distances. It also evaluated the fact of the presence (or not) of a virtual hand in the scenario of virtual reality in the feeling of presence. Thirty-six individuals (11 women and 25 men) were studied. The results show that there are no statistically significant differences in the perception of distances. The presence of a virtual hand negatively influences the feeling of presence in virtual contexts. We conclude that the use of virtual reality is an adequate means to train the perepção / assessment of distances.