Virtual Reality (VR) applications commonly use the illusion of self-motion (vection) to simulate experiences such as running, driving, or flying. However, this can lead to cybersickness, which diminishes the experience of users, and can even lead to disengagement with this platform. In this paper we present a study in which we show that users performing a cognitive task while experiencing a VR rollercoaster reported reduced symptoms of cybersickness. Furthermore, we collected and analysed brain activity data from our participants during their experience using functional near infra-red spectroscopy (fNIRS): preliminary analysis suggests the possibility that this technology may be able to detect the experience of cybersickness. Together, these results can assist the creators of VR experiences, both through mitigation of cybersickness in the design process, and by better understanding the experiences of their users.

The use of virtual reality (VR) to simulate confrontational human behaviour has significant potential for use in training, where the recreation of uncomfortable feelings may help users to prepare for challenging real-life situations. In this paper we present a user study (n=68) in which participants experienced simulated confrontational behaviour performed by a virtual character either in immersive VR, or on a 2D display. Participants reported a higher elevation in anxiety in VR, which correlated positively with a perceived sense of physical space. Character believability was influenced negatively by visual elements of the simulation, and positively by behavioural elements, which complements findings from previous work. We recommend the use of VR for simulations of confrontational behaviour, where a realistic emotional response is part of the intended experience. We also discuss incorporation of domain knowledge of human behaviours, and carefully crafted motion-captured sequences, to increase users’ sense of believability.

Researchers and developers have suggested that the use of diegetic interfaces can enhance users' sense of presence and immersion in virtual reality (VR) applications. While concepts of diegetic interfaces in VR are analogous to those seen on 2D displays, little work has considered how they might integrate with the movement-based controllers commonly used in consumer VR systems, to create higher fidelity interactions. In this paper we present a study (N = 58) in which we compare participants' experiences of diegetic and non-diegetic tool management interfaces, in a prototype VR crime scene investigation (CSI) training application. Contrary to expectations, we do not find evidence that participants' sense of presence is elevated when using the diegetic interface; however, we suggest that this may be due to reported higher levels of perceived workload, which can act to degrade user experience and engagement. We conclude by discussing the relationship between diegetic interface design and interaction fidelity, and highlighting trade-offs between fidelity, engagement, and learning outcomes in VR training applications.