Design and Evaluation of a Learning Assistant System with Optical Head-Mounted Display (OHMD)

Rapid increase in the use of wearable technologies, especially Optical Head-Mounted Display (OHMD) devices (e.g. Google Glass), suggests potentials for education and requires more scientific studies investigating such potentials. The issue of information access and delivery in classrooms can be of interest where multiple screens and objects of attention exist and can cause distraction, lack of focus and reduced efficiency. This study explores the usability of a single OHMD device, as an alternative to individual and big projection screens in a classroom situation. We developed OHMD-based prototypes that allowed presentation and practice of lesson material through three displays and two control options. We conducted user studies to compare various feasible combinations of display/control mechanism using a series of evaluation criteria, including enjoyment, ability to focus, motivation, perceived efficiency, physical comfort, understandability, and relaxation. Our results suggest that improved OHMD technology will have the potential ability to be effective in classroom learning.