Comparing 360-Degree Video and Immersive VR in Empathy Induction: Impact on Young Designers' Engagement and Problem Identification

Empathy is essential in design research, yet young designers often struggle to empathize with unfamiliar user groups, such as older adults with dementia. Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a tool for empathy induction, but the effectiveness of different VR formats remains unclear. This study compares 360-degree video and immersive virtual environments in fostering affective and cognitive empathy, user engagement, and problem identification. A total of 22 young designers were randomly assigned to experience one of the two VR modalities, depicting daily challenges faced by dementia patients. Results showed that 360-degree video significantly enhanced affective empathy and engagement compared to immersive VR, while no significant differences were found in cognitive empathy or problem identification. These findings suggest that realistic, context-rich experiences may evoke stronger emotional resonance, whereas fully virtual environments require further refinement. Future research should explore how interactive elements, embodiment, and perspective shifts in immersive VR can improve empathy induction. This study underscores the importance of media selection and contextual realism in empathy-driven design interventions.