Evaluating Text Placement in Information-Rich Virtual Environments: A User Study on Controller-Anchored Text

Controller-anchored texts in information-rich virtual learning environments are particularly useful for learning procedural content. However, there is a lack of comprehensive guidelines for controller-anchored text. Often, a watch metaphor is used to argue for the placement of text on the controller, resulting in a placement closely mimicking this metaphor. To evaluate and compare different variations of controller-anchored text placements, we conducted a study with 26 participants. We varied the controller the text was attached to and the position of the text in regard to the controller and evaluated the resulting six placements for two abstracted, non-stationary learning tasks. We assessed the cognitive and task load, the usability, and the preference. Our results show that the wrist placement should be avoided, due to low preference and usability. Furthermore, the non-dominant controller should be used to anchor text.