Hybrid Spaces

IJHCI • International Journal of Human–Computer Interaction (2025)

Bother Me

Understanding Learner Perceptions and Behaviors with Virtual Users in Interview Training

Description

Interviewing is pivotal in design thinking for understanding user needs. This study evaluates the use of AI-simulated virtual users in a laddering interview training workshop, where participants practiced skills with both human peers and a virtual user via the Wizard of Oz method, incorporating voice/video calls and text messaging. Analysis of 40 interview transcripts identified themes of improved exploratory conversation, rapport building, and reduced anxiety. Virtual users enhanced participant confidence and lowered cognitive load, leading to better performance. These findings suggest that integrating chatbots and virtual agents into educational frameworks could significantly enhance learner engagement and skill development across various interactive domains. Future research should refine virtual user designs to better mimic human interactions, optimizing training for real-world interviews.

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10447318.2025.2482736