Tick-tock: Revisiting the Influence of Zeitgebers and Cognitive Load on Time Judgments during and after VR Immersion

Prior research has explored the impact of virtual reality (VR) on human time perception without definitive conclusions. To enhance understanding, we replicated a seminal study, refining it and introducing novel variables. Building upon the original study, we investigated the influence of virtual sun speed and cognitive workload on time perception in a VR environment. Our experiment involved 70 participants estimating time intervals under varying cognitive demands. In addition to assessing time perception during immersion, we examined post-VR time estimations. Contrary to the original study, virtual sun movements did not affect time judgments in VR. However, cognitive workload had a consistent effect, which is consistent with previous findings. Notably, VR immersion affected post-VR time perception of short intervals, a previously overlooked aspect. We contribute to the field by deepening the understanding of time perception dynamics during and after VR experiences and refining earlier findings through replication.