Should we break the illusion? A study on non-diegetic audio in immersive informal learning

This study explores the role of explanatory narration, delivered as non-diegetic audio—in supporting conceptual understanding and
long-term motivation in immersive virtual reality (VR). Building on an open-source VR simulation where users embody an Adélie penguin, we conducted a between-subjects experiment (N = 30) to examine how synchronized narration impacts learning outcomes, embodiment, and post-experience engagement. Participants performed four embodied tasks—waddling, nesting, mating, and predator defense—with or without narration. Assessments included immediate and delayed knowledge tests, a 16-item embodiment questionnaire, and motivation measures three weeks post-experience.

Findings show that explanatory narration significantly enhanced both short-term knowledge accuracy and long-term interest in penguin-related content. However, narration also led to a sharper decline in certain aspects of embodiment over time, suggesting a shift toward a more reflective, observer-like stance. Qualitative feedback revealed that narration clarified ambiguous behaviors and enabled participants to more confidently communicate their learning afterward. Rather than viewing narration as a break in immersion, we argue it acts as a productive scaffold—supporting meaning-making and retention while gently modulating presence.

These results offer new design insights for educational VR, especially in contexts requiring both embodied engagement and conceptual clarity.