Comparing Active vs. Passive Participation in a Virtual Tour

In corporate virtual world (VW) demonstrations, it can oftentimes be difficult to gain the active participation (i.e., first hand interaction) of all users of the demonstration. Due to the general willingness or ability to register with VWs (e.g., Second Life^®) and self-efficacy associated with controlling an avatar, many users may be more apt to participate passively (e.g., watch someone else interact). Therefore, in the present work, we investigated the differences and similarities in the attitudes between visitors to a virtual tour, who either actively or passively participated. The results of the study indicated that large group active participation led to more confusion and distraction when compared to large group passive participation. However, passive participants indicated less confidence in their ability to interact with the tour on their own. This paper concludes with lessons learned and recommendations for this virtual tour.