Discretization or Sequentiality? Exploring UI Layouts for Reading-to-Learn Processes on Mixed Reality Headsets

As mixed reality (MR) systems grow in popularity, understanding how virtual-physical panel layouts impact reading and learning is crucial. This study investigates four MR layout designs driven by two dimensions: discretization (continuous vs. discrete) and sequentiality (progressive vs. full disclosure). We conducted two experiments: a 24-participant study using low-difficulty reading materials to gather user perspectives, and a 48-participant study evaluating learning performance and user experience (UX) during high-difficulty tasks. Results indicate that continuous, full-disclosure layouts reduced reading time and improved UX by lowering motion sickness and workload compared to discrete, full-disclosure designs. Conversely, discrete, progressive-disclosure layouts required more time but yielded higher knowledge acquisition than other patterns. These findings provide actionable insights for MR designers creating interfaces that integrate virtual information with physical reading materials to optimize both user comfort and learning outcomes.