User-centric avatar design: A cognitive walkthrough approach for metaverse in virtual education

Metaverse, once a concept confined to science fiction, has emerged as a transformative reality during the digital era. As this immersive virtual world gains prominence, the role of avatars and the digital representations of users in shaping educational experiences within a metaverse becomes increasingly crucial. This study examined the design of avatars and their effectiveness in virtual education. Using the cognitive walkthrough (CW) method, a well-established user-centric assessment approach, this study examined how users engage in avatar design in virtual educational settings, highlighting their cognitive processes. Through the CW approach, this study identified usability issues and learning challenges, providing valuable insights into the user experience. The investigation focuses on the VRoid platform for avatar design, selected for its user-friendly interface and robust customization features. Participants (n ​= ​12; six men and six women) from diverse educational backgrounds were carefully selected to offer a comprehensive range of perspectives. They performed avatar design tasks that closely mirrored the learning environment of the metaverse, followed by in-depth post-exercise interviews. The findings of this study highlight the essential role of avatar design in enhancing user engagement and improving the learning outcomes of virtual education. Furthermore, we provide practical recommendations for educators and designers to effectively leverage avatar innovation. In a continuously evolving era of metaverse, this research contributes significantly to the ongoing discourse on user-centered design in educational settings, thereby influencing the future trajectory of virtual education.