The study examines the effect of avatar realism on anxiety levels among English as a Second Language (ESL) speakers during interactions with native English speakers. It was found that cartoonish avatars or direct video interactions with real individuals tend to reduce such anxieties. However, avatars with a high degree of human-like realism increase anxiety levels among ESL users. This research has significant implications for the design and usage of virtual avatars, especially in overcoming cross-cultural communication barriers and enhancing user experience.
Publication date: 13 Nov 2023
Project Page: https://doi.org/XXXXXXX.XXXXXXX
Paper: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2311.05126
