Brave is a VR-powered training tool designed to help users overcome public speaking anxiety through gradual exposure. Using principles of exposure therapy and mindfulness, it creates a safe, immersive environment where users can practice speaking with adjustable audience reactions and feedback mechanisms. By simulating real-world scenarios, Brave allows users to build confidence without the pressure of a live audience.
Background
User Problem
Key Insights Targeting Users with High Anxiety Scores
(Only users who responded with a Likert scale score of 3-5 on all anxiety-related items)
Survey of 100 students and office workers in their 20s and 30s
Hypothesis
Goals
Solution & Key Features
Stage-based Exposure Levels
Users start at a beginner level with minimal audience interaction and gradually progress to advanced stages where they face larger audiences, unpredictable reactions, and environmental distractions.
Real-time Feedback Mechanism
Includes features like eye contact analysis, filler word tracking, and pacing metrics. After each session, users receive feedback to reflect on their progress.
Mindfulness and Breathing Techniques
Integrates pre- and post-session mindfulness exercises to help users manage anxiety and practice emotional regulation.
Competitor Analysis
We analyzed existing VR and exposure therapy solutions to identify effective features and areas for improvement. Findings revealed that most current VR tools are limited to static audience simulations or lack the gradual progression critical to reducing anxiety sustainably.
Implement an environment similar to situations the patient has actually experienced
Improve presentation skills through subtitles and presentation recordings
Design & Prototyping
Wireframes & User Flow
Mapped out scenarios where users face varied audience reactions.
MVP Development
Built an MVP in Unity with Oculus VR for user testing, focusing on core features such as the stage-based progression and feedback mechanisms.
User Testing & Insights
We conducted usability testing with four users who reported high levels of public speaking anxiety. Key findings included:
Positive Response to Gradual Exposure
Users felt more comfortable progressing through anxiety-inducing scenarios at their own pace.
Effective Relaxation Techniques
Breathing exercises and mindfulness sessions significantly reduced anxiety before practice
Improved Self-awareness
Real-time feedback helped users identify habits like excessive filler words and poor pacing, encouraging targeted improvement.
Results
After testing, users reported a decrease in anxiety levels, improved speech control, and increased confidence in public speaking. Feedback scores showed that:
4.2/5 believed that stage-based exposure improved their speaking ability.
5.2/5 found that mindfulness techniques helped them manage anxiety effectively.
5.3/5 reported that real-time feedback was essential for building self-awareness.
Outcomes & Recognition
The project received positive feedback from users, who reported reduced public speaking anxiety and improved presentation skills. Notably, it was awarded 1st place at the HCI CollegeCon 2023 held in December 2023, recognizing its innovation and effectiveness.
Reflection
This project demonstrated the potential of user-centered design and VR technology in addressing psychological challenges. Future iterations aim to incorporate personalized scenarios and adaptive feedback systems to further enhance real-world presentation abilities.
