A systematic map of research characteristics in studies on augmented reality and cognitive load

Abstract

In this paper, we present results from a systematic review of research on Augmented Reality (AR) with a special focus on cognitive load (CL). A total of 64 studies from the years 2007 to 2019 were analyzed. The number of publications on AR and CL is steadily increasing. While studies are often conducted by multidisciplinary teams, most are from the US and Taiwan. From a methodological perspective, quantitative research methods with experimental designs dominate. Usually, studies are conducted as media comparison studies measuring effects of AR on declarative or procedural knowledge compared to one or more control groups. The examination of AR focuses on different components, with assistance systems and instructional materials being the most common. Mostly, studies are about see-through, marker-based, spatial, and location-based AR. Markerless or web AR applications are not yet in this sample. The influence of AR glasses on the cognitive load is most often investigated, followed by mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets. Among the survey instruments, the Nasa Task Load Index (Nasa TLX) is used most frequently; only three studies use dual task methods to measure the cognitive load. Implications for future research projects are presented and should contribute to the advancement of research on AR and cognitive load. More research is definitely needed.