Comparing the roles of 3D representations in audio and audio-visual collaborations

This study investigates the effects of performance and communication within audio-visual (shared representations) and audio-only conditions. Two three-dimensional (3D) representations were presented in each communication condition. The goal of the study was to examine both explicit and implicit references made during verbal interactions, and to gather subjective usability evaluations of each representation. Sixty dyads performed a series of problem solving tasks in three experimental conditions: mixed, 3D cylinder and 3D helix representations. Assessment measures included overall performance time and accuracy, and user attitudes pertaining to the usability of the displays. Although no differences in task performance were observed, qualitative measures revealed differences between representation and communication groups. User preferences for 3D cylinder and 3D helix representations were observed, with disparate strategies being adopted between groups. In general, the analyses indicated that the presence of shared visual information enhances collaborative problem solving. © Springer-Verlag London Limited 2004.