Improving wheelchair driving performance in a virtual reality simulator

In this study, we measured if practice of a wheelchair activity in a virtual reality simulator (entering an elevator) improved wheelchair positioning skills in naïve, healthy adults. Performance was assessed immediately after practice, two days later (retention) and in a real-world equivalent task (transfer). The influence of augmented feedback on retention and transfer was also assessed. Forty participants were randomized to either an augmented feedback group (who received information on collisions and on task completion time) and a no-feedback group. Following training, both groups improved their wheelchair positioning abilities. Learning was maintained at retention and skills transferred to the real-world wheelchair. Augmented feedback did not procure any additional effects. Practice in a virtual reality simulator significantly improved wheelchair positioning skills. Higher performance gains could be achieved by providing task-specific feedback.