Exploring neural efficiency in spatial cognition: A comparative study of 3D visual stimuli in virtual reality across STEM and non-STEM fields

Autor(es)

Soares Jr, Raimundo da Silva ; Oku, Amanda Yumi Ambriola ; Barreto, Candida S. F. ; Sato, Joao Ricardo

• Tipo de documento: Artigo Científico
• Fonte: Behavioural Brain Research; v. 477, p. 9-pg., 2024-10-19.

Resumo

Spatial cognition plays a crucial role in our daily lives. The relationship between spatial abilities and mathematical performance is well-established, with visuospatial training offering significant benefits in academic STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines. Developing visuospatial training requires an objective evaluation of spatial cognition and consideration of various 3D displays. This study aims to compare the neural efficiency of STEM and non-STEM individuals during mental rotation tasks (MRT) in 3D and 2.5D conditions (pseudo 3D) using virtual reality (VR). For that, we propose a novel integrative assessment of spatial cognition by combining a cost-effective VR headset and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Overall, the findings reveal that STEM individuals exhibit greater neural efficiency in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (PFC) while solving MRT in a VR environment compared to their non-STEM counterparts. Additionally, the study shows that there is no significant difference in performance between 3D and 2.5D stimuli, suggesting that both conditions are equally suitable for MRT in VR. One possible explanation is that immersive VR reduces the distinctions between 3D models and 2.5D images, considering MRT scores and PFC activity. This research underscores the practicality and relevance of using VR and fNIRS to evaluate visuospatial tasks and the potential to identify distinct student learning profiles and enhance spatial skills. Furthermore, it highlights the potential of 2.5D stimuli as a cost-effective alternative for learning applications in VR. Here, we demonstrated that modeling the same task in 3D and 2.5D conditions can compare how humans interact with visuospatial tests, providing insights into applying VR devices to develop spatial skills. (AU)

• Processo FAPESP: 23/16997-6 - EMU: Sistema multimodal de registro de atividade neural para avaliação de funções cerebrais
• Beneficiário: João Ricardo Sato
• Modalidade de apoio: Auxílio à Pesquisa - Programa Infraestrutura - Pequeno Médio Porte
• Processo FAPESP: 21/05332-8 - Coorte de alto risco para transtornos psiquiátricos: seguimento de 10 anos
• Beneficiário: Rodrigo Affonseca Bressan
• Modalidade de apoio: Auxílio à Pesquisa - Temático
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• Beneficiário: Pedro Alberto Morettin
• Modalidade de apoio: Auxílio à Pesquisa - Temático
• Processo FAPESP: 19/17907-5 - Inferências de conexões intercerebrais com utilização de espectroscopia de infravermelho próximo: investigação de interações adulto-criança
• Beneficiário: Amanda Yumi Ambriola Oku
• Modalidade de apoio: Bolsas no Brasil - Doutorado Direto
• Processo FAPESP: 18/21934-5 - Estatística de redes: teoria, métodos e aplicações
• Beneficiário: André Fujita
• Modalidade de apoio: Auxílio à Pesquisa - Temático
• Processo FAPESP: 23/02538-0 - Séries temporais, ondaletas, dados de alta dimensão e aplicações
• Beneficiário: Aluísio de Souza Pinheiro
• Modalidade de apoio: Auxílio à Pesquisa - Temático
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• Beneficiário: Raimundo da Silva Soares Junior
• Modalidade de apoio: Bolsas no Brasil - Programa Capacitação - Treinamento Técnico