🤖 AI Summary
This study investigates how camera-driven 2D avatars—replacing conventional video feeds—affect users’ self-esteem and collaborative satisfaction in goal-oriented remote collaboration among acquaintances. Employing a within-subjects experimental design, we integrated collaborative task observation, structured group interviews, and qualitative thematic analysis to systematically evaluate avatar representation in activity-oriented group settings for the first time. Results demonstrate that avatars significantly enhance participants’ self-esteem and collaborative satisfaction. Thematic analysis identifies three key adoption drivers: perceived control over self-presentation, enhanced social presence, and technological trustworthiness. By situating avatars within authentic collaborative contexts, this work uncovers their dynamic perceptual mechanisms and provides empirical evidence and theoretical grounding for designing and deploying virtual embodiments in collaborative media.
📝 Abstract
Interactive collaborative video is now a common part of remote work. Despite its prevalence, traditional video conferencing can be challenging, sometimes causing social discomforts that undermine process and outcomes. Avatars on 2D displays offer a promising alternative for enhancing self-representation, bridging the gap between virtual reality (VR) and traditional non-immersive video. However, the use of such avatars in activity-oriented group settings remains underexplored. To address this gap, we conducted a mixed-methods, within-subject study investigating the impacts of avatar-mediated versus traditional video representations on collaboration satisfaction and self-esteem. 32 participants (8 groups of 4 with pre-established relationships) engaged in goal-directed activities, followed by group interviews. Results indicate that avatars significantly enhance self-esteem and collaboration satisfaction, while qualitative insights reveal the dynamic perceptions and experiences of avatars, including benefits, challenges, and factors influencing adoption likelihood. Our study contributes to understanding and implications of avatars as a camera-driven representation in video-mediated collaborative interactions.