People who squint sought for new study into effects of 3D technology

People who squint sought for new study into effects of 3D technology

Researchers at Abertay and St Andrews Universities are looking for people with strabismus (squint) and all those who have difficulty watching 3D movies, to get involved in an exciting new study into the effects of 3D technology. 3D technology – from 3D cinema to emerging virtual reality systems such as the Oculus Rift and the new PlayStation VR – can induce incredible immersive experiences for people with normal vision by presenting separate images to each eye. However, those who squint – up to 10 per cent of the population – may not yet be able to get the best experience out of this type of technology or, indeed, be able to use it at all. Even some people with normal vision say that they do not like 3D films or Augmented Reality because it makes them feel nauseous. The study therefore intends to find out exactly what it is that those who squint actually see when they use 3D technology, how they experience depth, and how they interact with depth on a daily basis. The results of this research will be used to help improve the design of this type of technology, to help find new alternatives that will make it more inclusive and accessible, and potentially even to help create therapeutic video games. Dr Ken Scott-Brown – a visual perception psychologist and Senior Lecturer at Abertay University – explains: “We’re looking for people in Dundee to participate in this study if they are aware they have – or have had – a squint. Or if they are experiencing great difficulty watching 3D movies. “We’ll give you £5 per hour for your time, but even more importantly you can help us learn more about depth perception in individuals who squint. “This knowledge is essential not only for better understanding depth perception in general, but also for improving current 3D technology to make it more inclusive and accessible. “More specifically, the findings of this study may help to create adaptive virtual reality designs, or help to find alternatives that eliminate negative experiences often linked to current 3D technology by regular users, such as fatigue, nausea and headaches. “Lastly, improving general understanding about the condition may help to avoid the creation of certain biases and stigmas associated with having a squint.” To participate or find out more please contact Giedre Zlatkute on Gz37@st-andrews.ac.uk or call 07972 496 916. For media enquiries please contact Kirsty Cameron T: 01382 308 935 M: 07972 172 158 E: k.cameron@abertay.ac.uk

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