The Impact of Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence on Human Cognitive Performance: A Study of Cognitive Engagement in Immersive Digital Environments
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47067/ramss.v9i1.633Keywords:
Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Performance, Cognitive Engagement, Immersive Environments, Human-Computer Interaction, Digital LearningAbstract
This study explored the impact of Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) on human cognitive performance, focusing on cognitive engagement in immersive digital environments. A qualitative research design was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with participants from universities in the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Malaysia, and Pakistan. Data were collected through Zoom meetings, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and insights. The results showed that immersive experiences and adaptive AI feedback were found to have a great effect on better attention, focus, mental effort, and problem-solving skills, whereas the technological design, interface usability, and individual differences, including previous experience and motivational factors, affected cognitive outcomes. Other struggles that were mentioned by participants were cognitive and sensory overload, and the possibility of being over-dependent on AI assistance, which explains the necessity of well-thought-out and user-friendly immersive settings. The research highlights the opportunities of VR and AI to improve the learning process, engagement, and decision-making, and points to the necessity of complexity, interactivity, and personalization balance. These results are useful in the future development of immersive digital technologies in the educational process, professional education, and mind development.
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