Learning across Diverse Training Modalities is Different across Gender: Insights from a Neuroergonomics Approach

Abstract

Recent challenges such as COVID-19 call for innovative methods of delivering training. In this study, we compare the effectiveness of augmented reality (AR) based psychomotor learning compared to videobased training. Participants completed either AR or video training to learn four basic AR interactions, before completing an AR evaluation. The AR group reported greater workload during training but demonstrated better performance during evaluation. We used functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to compare brain activation and functional connectivity across groups during evaluation. We found that participants in the AR group displayed smaller brain networks during the evaluation, suggesting more efficient utilization of neural resources. Sex differences in activation and connectivity suggest that men and women potentially employ different neural strategies while learning motor skills in AR. Future studies should examine how these differences could impact performance and user experience in future AR-based training programs.