Switching between a computer monitor and virtual reality to reduce the sustained attention decrement

Abstract

The present study examined whether changing presentation context can restore sustained attention during monotonous tasks. Participants (N = 164) completed a sustained attention task (i.e., the visual metronome response task) with stimuli presented either on a computer monitor or through a virtual reality (VR) headset. Across two task blocks some participants switched devices (monitor to VR, or VR to monitor), while others used the same device throughout (monitor to monitor, or VR to VR). We observed a sustained attention decrement characterized by increasing response time variability and mind-wandering over time. Participants who switched presentation contexts experienced reductions in mind-wandering compared to those who maintained the same device, demonstrating contextual changes can effectively restore subjective attentional engagement. The type of device switched to (and from) had minimal impact, suggesting the benefit stems from the contextual change rather than the specific presentation mode. Contrary to expectations, overall performance was poorer in VR than on the monitor. However, the effects of switching on task performance were not significant. The results suggest changes in context surrounding a persistent task can be beneficial by temporarily reducing mind-wandering.