{"id":235,"date":"2025-09-23T20:59:07","date_gmt":"2025-09-24T00:59:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sciences.ucf.edu\/psychology\/vaail\/?page_id=235"},"modified":"2026-07-14T09:58:23","modified_gmt":"2026-07-14T13:58:23","slug":"research","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sciences.ucf.edu\/psychology\/vaail\/research\/","title":{"rendered":"Research"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

At the VAAIL, situated within the Department of Psychology at the University of Central Florida, we bring together psychologists, human\u2013computer interaction researchers, and virtual reality enthusiasts to explore the future of immersive technologies. Our work focuses on designing and evaluating innovative virtual and augmented reality applications through a human-centered lens. By studying how people experience and interact with immersive environments, we aim to uncover principles that guide the development of effective, engaging, and meaningful virtual experiences. The list below includes publications (journal and conference articles as well as posters) from 2025 onward. \u200b\u200bTo see a list with all accepted publications prior to 2025, visit this Google Scholar profile<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Scientific Reports 2026 – Original Research Article<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Effects of Visual Thermal Cues on Thermal Perception and Thermoregulation While Cycling in Virtual Reality<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Martin Kocur, Adriana Chaparro-Gonzalez, Jonaris Delgado, Joshua Malam, Cheyenne Ivey, Kale Lawhorne, Nyah McFarlane, Sergi Garcia-Retortillo, Valentin Schwind, Niels Henze<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Forthcoming<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Thermal perception and regulation are essential for physical exercise. The hue-heat hypothesis suggests that an environment’s color temperature, e.g., warm reddish lighting or cold bluish lighting, affects thermal perception and regulation. Virtual reality (VR) enables immersion in any environment. Previous work showed that a VR environment can affect how warm or cold users feel during sedentary VR experiences. However, it is unclear whether such visual thermal cues also influence physiological and perceptual responses during physical exercise.
Therefore, we conducted a controlled VR experiment (n = 34) examining whether a virtual heater, either activated or deactivated, influences skin temperature, thermal perception, and perceived exertion while cycling for 20 minutes in each condition. Activation of the virtual heater resulted in significantly higher skin temperature over time and increased thermal sensation compared to the deactivated heater, despite no differences in perceived exertion and heart rate responses. Thereby, we show that visual thermal cues can indeed influence users\u2019 thermal perception and thermophysiological responses during physical exercise. Our findings highlight the role of visual environmental cues in shaping thermoregulation during immersive physical exercises.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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CHI Play 2026 – Original Research Article<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Effects of Virtual Clothing and Naturalistic Virtual Environments on Temperature Perception and Thermoregulation<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Martin Kocur, Ananta-Deza Realdy, Matthias Zerniekel, Valentin Schwind, Niels Henze<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Forthcoming<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Thermal perception and regulation are essential for many gameplay experiences. They are primarily influenced by temperature and humidity, but also by visual cues. In particular, stylized avatars and environments that suggest extreme temperatures in virtual reality (VR) games can affect how warm or cold players feel. However, it is unclear whether more naturalistic avatars and environments produce similar effects and how these factors interact. To investigate this, we conducted an online study (n = 100) examining whether an avatar\u2019s clothing, body shape, skin tone, age, and the surrounding environment influence anticipated thermal comfort. Most factors showed significant effects. Because environment and clothing had the strongest impact, we examined them further in a second study in VR (N = 24). The results showed measurable effects on skin temperature, thermal sensation, and thermal comfort. These findings indicate that even naturalistic avatars and environments in games can influence players\u2019 thermal perception and physiological responses. Game designers can therefore intentionally use visual cues to shape player experience, but they should also be aware of unintended temperature-related effects in VR. Implications for game design and player comfort are discussed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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CHI Play 2026 – Original Research Article<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tuning the Trail: Effects of Desire Paths on Player Behavior and Experience During Goal-Directed and Exploratory Play<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Michael Lankes, Guenter Wallner, Martin Kocur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Forthcoming<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Player traces such as footprints are a common way to make prior players\u2019 actions visible and to scaffold navigation and learning. Yet it remains unclear how the density of such traces affects player\u2019 experience across different task demands. We investigate how sparse versus dense footprints shape players\u2019 reliance on traces, perceived usefulness, and workload in two contrasting gameplay tasks: one that benefits from following established routes and one that rewards broader exploration and collection. We conducted a controlled mixed-methods study combining behavioral telemetry, standardized scales (NASA\u2013TLX, miniPXI), and open-ended feedback. We found that denser footprints increased players\u2019 tendency to rely on traces and improved perceived usefulness. Goal clarity was shaped primarily by the task itself. At the same time, workload was significantly shaped by the task itself: goal-oriented play imposed higher temporal demand and effort than open exploration. Qualitative reports and descriptive patterns further suggest that the experiential meaning of density depends on context, i.e., dense traces appeared supportive when players pursued a clear goal, but constraining during free exploration. We discuss implications on player navigation in game design and offer directions for future work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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CHI 2026 – Poster<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Exploring the Time Course of the Proteus Effect: Effects of Avatar Age and Embodiment Time on Walking in Virtual Reality<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Alexander Kalus, Katrin Wolf, Suemeyye R. Yildiran, Martin Kocur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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DOI<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Avatar appearance can influence users\u2019 behaviour within Virtual Reality (VR), a phenomenon known as the Proteus effect. Prior work suggests that walking behavior after VR exposure is affected by the previously embodied avatar\u2019s apparent age. However, little is known about how such effects unfold during ongoing avatar embodiment in VR. We conducted a study where 32 full-body tracked participants embodied young- and old-looking avatars and repeatedly completed a walking route in VR. Results show that participants walked significantly slower when embodying old-looking avatars. Presence and body ownership increased over time. Interestingly, embodiment duration did not significantly affect the magnitude of the Proteus effect on walking speed, with descriptive differences remaining largely stable. These results suggest that the behavioral impact of avatar age persists without substantial change over a 15 to 20-minute VR session. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of avatar age as a design parameter in VR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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TOCHI 2026 – Original Research Article<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investigating Subjective and Physiological Effects of Color Temperature and Visual Thermal Cues in Virtual Reality<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Christoph Wuehrl, Sabrina Hoessl, Tien-Julian Ho, Barbara Stiglbauer, Niels Henze, Martin Kocur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Virtual reality enables immersion in any environment. According to the hue-heat hypothesis, an environment\u2019s color temperature influences thermal perception and regulation, factors important for productivity and energy consumption. Previous work suggests that visual thermal cues, e.g., snowy or desert environments, affect thermal perception and regulation. As color temperature was not controlled, it is unknown if hue or thermal cues caused the effects. In our first study, we derived two virtual environments with cold or warm thermal cues. In the second study, participants experienced these environments with varying hues for five minutes. We found that hue influences thermal sensation and thermal cues influence sensation, comfort, and skin temperature. As these effects seem to increase beyond five minutes, a third study with longer exposure and more extreme hue differences confirmed and extended these findings. Overall, our results consistently show that hue and visual thermal cues independently affect thermal perception and regulation. This highlights the importance of considering both when designing virtual environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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CHI 2025 – Original Research Article<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investigating the Impact of Customized Avatars and the Proteus Effect during Physical Exercise in Virtual Reality<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Martin Kocur, Melanie Kloss, Christoph Schaufler, Valentin Schwind, Niels Henze<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Virtual reality (VR) allows to embody avatars. Coined the Proteus effect, an avatar\u2019s visual appearance can influence users\u2019 behavior and perception. Recent work suggests that athletic avatars decrease perceptual and physiological responses during VR exercise. However, such effects can fail to occur when users do not experience avatar ownership and identification. While customized avatars increase body ownership and identification, it is unclear whether they improve the Proteus effect. We conducted a study with 24 participants to determine the effects of athletic and non-athletic avatars that were either customized or randomly assigned. We developed a customization editor to allow creating customized avatars. We found that customized avatars reduced perceived exertion. We also found that athletic avatars decreased heart rate while holding weights, however, only when being customized. Results indicate that customized avatars can positively influence users during physical exertion. We discuss the utilization of avatar customization in VR exercise systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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CHI 2025 – Original Research Article<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Honorable Mention<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Pathways of Desire: Enhancing Navigation and Sense of Community Through Player-Generated Desire Paths<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Michael Lankes, Guenter Wallner, Martin Kocur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Navigating is essential in many video games. However, previous work suggests that many games still suffer from navigational problems that decrease enjoyment. In this paper, we focus on “Desire Paths”, informal trails collectively created by pedestrians representing the most convenient route. While they are known to be useful wayfinding aids, it is unclear how they affect navigation and experience in games. We therefore investigated diegetically visualized player trajectory data in a 2D game through virtual footprints that were persistently visible for all subsequent players. Through a mixed-methods study involving 50 participants, we found that virtual footprints improved navigation by guiding players to points of interest and reducing disorientation for early players. However, visual clutter from excessive footprints reduced their effectiveness in later stages. They also fostered a sense of community, especially for late-stage players and prompted exploration of yet undiscovered areas. We further discuss design implications and future research directions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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VRST 2025 – Original Research Article<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Effects of Embodying Emotional Avatars on Thermophysiological Responses and Affective State in Virtual Reality<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Daniel Leichinger, Valentin Schwind, Niels Henze, Martin Kocur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Designers of virtual characters use facial expressions to display avatar emotions. Previous work revealed connections between emotions and thermoregulatory, e.g., happiness increases and sadness decreases skin temperature. As virtual reality (VR) enables embodying avatars with any facial expression, it is unclear whether embodying avatars with different emotions also affect users’ thermophysiological and emotional responses. We conducted a study with 24 participants who embodied customized avatars displaying happy, neutral, and sad facial expressions in VR. We found that participants’ skin temperature was higher with sad avatars than with happy ones while resting. Despite non-significant pairwise comparisons, descriptive statistics suggest an opposite trend for skin temperature responses during grabbing interactions. We also show that participants felt happier while embodying happy avatars compared to sad avatars. Results indicate that avatars’ emotions impact users’ thermoregulation and affective states. We discuss underlying mechanisms and potential applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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VRST 2025 – Original Research Article<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investigating How to Control Virtual Spiders While Embodying Them in Virtual Reality<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Philipp Thayer, Martin Kocur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Virtual Reality (VR) enables users to embody avatars with vastly different appearances and anatomies. Embodying virtual spiders with their alien morphology could offer exciting experiences for immersive VR in gaming or education. While prior research has explored embodiment of human-like avatars and even non-human forms such as animals, it still remains unclear how best to control anatomically distinct avatars such as spiders. In this study, we systematically compared four control methods – standard VR controller, hand control, half-body control, and full-body control – while embodying a spider in VR. Using a repeated-measures design with 20 participants, we assessed each control method in terms of embodiment, usability, and perceived exertion. Results indicate that half-body control offered the best overall balance, with the highest usability and lowest exertion, while still maintaining a comparable level of embodiment to other methods. Full-body control was rated significantly lower in usability and higher in perceived exertion. These findings suggest that half-body control may provide a good balance between realism and usability for embodying spiders in VR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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MUM 2025 – Original Research Article<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sustained Effects of Avatars on Skin Temperature and Thermal
Sensation in Virtual Reality<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Elisa Valetta, Anna-Lena Babl, Emma Sophie Reichert, Michael Pickl, Valentin Schwind, Martin Kocur, Niels Henze<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Perceived temperature and thermoregulation are not only influenced by actual temperature but also by visual perception. For instance, the hue-heat hypothesis posits that warm-colored lighting can increase perceived temperature. Recent work indicates that embodying avatars with visual cues suggesting extreme temperatures influences thermal perception and thermoregulation. However, recent work is limited by short exposure times, inconsistent temperature effects, and the absence of a baseline comparison. Thus, we conducted a study where participants embodied ice, neutral, and fire hands in virtual reality for 15 minutes. We show that thermal sensation is significantly higher with fire hands compared to ice hands, but found no consistent effects on skin temperature. As the effects on thermal sensation remain consistent at least over 15 minutes, we conclude that avatars’ appearance can be used to systematically influence users’ thermal perception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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VINCI 2025 – Art Paper<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Interactive Augmented Reality Experiences for Urban Art Spaces
Using Markerless Tracking<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Axel Bauer, Juergen Hagler, Martin Kocur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Outdoor art exhibitions are increasingly popular spaces for people to connect with art. With the rapid advancements in augmented reality and mixed reality, immersive technologies and digital augmentations are transforming how people experience art by incorporating animations and interactive elements. However, though commonly used, marker-based augmented reality approaches present limitations in large outdoor exhibitions, including tedious setups and restricted exploration freedom for users. To address these challenges, we present a markerless mobile AR application utilizing Geospatial tracking to augment murals and playfully enhance outdoor art exhibitions with dynamic animations and interactive features that target the space between exhibits. In this paper, we describe the development of the mobile AR application and explore various interaction concepts in a qualitative in-situ study with 10 participants. Findings demonstrate how our application can be utilized to create innovative, user-centered experiences in outdoor art settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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CHI 2025 – Poster<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investigating the Effects of Sweating Avatars on Physiological and Perceptual Responses During Low- and High-Intensity Cycling in Virtual Reality<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Brenden Grace, Stephan Selinger, Philipp Wintersberger, Martin Kocur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Virtual reality (VR) enables users to experience avatars as their own body. Avatars can induce the Proteus effect \u2014 a shift in behavior and perception conforming to the avatar\u2019s appearance. Previous work found that sweaty avatars can reduce the perceived exertion while cycling in VR. However, it is unknown if the effects of sweaty avatars depend on the cycling intensity and if they can also influence physiological responses. Hence, we conducted a study to investigate the effects of sweaty avatars on breathing responses and perception of effort while cycling at low and high intensities. We found that participants\u2019 oxygen consumption and perception of effort was only influenced by the sweaty appearance of the avatar during low-intensity cycling. Results suggest that an avatar\u2019s sweaty appearance can influence breathing and perceptual responses, however, only during low-intensity workloads. Our work contributes to the Proteus effect on physiological and perceptual responses in VR.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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VRST 2025 – Poster<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Effects of Rendering a Virtual Nose on Odor Perception and
Presence in Mixed Reality<\/h5>\n\n\n\n

Lisa Reichl, Martin Kocur<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Abstract: Cybersickness remains a persistent challenge in immersive media. Prior work suggests that rendering a virtual nose can reduce cybersickness by providing a stable visual reference. However, if it introduces unwanted perceptual side effects such as changing odor perception or reducing the sense of presence is currently unknown. We conducted a study with 22 participants to examine whether a virtual nose influences odor perception or sense of presence in mixed reality. Except for perceived familiarity of the odor, results provide moderate evidence that rendering a virtual nose does not differ from not rendering one. This indicates that a virtual nose does not significantly influence presence and odor sensitivity. However, future work should further explore how a virtual nose influences perceived familiarity of odors to learn more about perceptual side effects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

At the VAAIL, situated within the Department of Psychology at the University of Central Florida, we bring together psychologists, human\u2013computer interaction researchers, and virtual reality enthusiasts to explore the future of immersive technologies. Our work focuses on designing and evaluating innovative virtual and augmented reality applications through a human-centered lens. By studying how people experience […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":285,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-235","page","type-page","status-publish","czr-hentry"],"yoast_head":"\nResearch - Virtual Avatar & Agent Interaction Lab<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/sciences.ucf.edu\/psychology\/vaail\/research\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Research - Virtual Avatar & Agent Interaction Lab\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"At the VAAIL, situated within the Department of Psychology at the University of Central Florida, we bring together psychologists, human\u2013computer interaction researchers, and virtual reality enthusiasts to explore the future of immersive technologies. Our work focuses on designing and evaluating innovative virtual and augmented reality applications through a human-centered lens. 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