New VR platform to tackle public speaking fears: try it out, it's free

Scientists at Cambridge found a way to employ virtual reality to help people who suffer from speech anxiety.

It’s been reported that around 77% of the general population suffer from Glossophobia, also known as a fear of public speaking.

While some might feel a slight nervousness when speaking publicly, others can experience a full-on panic.

Every time I have to speak in public or in front of a camera, my smartwatch starts to raise alarm bells about my elevated heart rate.

Researchers at Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge, devised a solution based on VR technology to tackle this problem.

The researchers released a free platform on which users can learn to overcome their phobia through “life-like virtual reality training.”

Lab director and platform founder Dr Chris Macdonald explained that while in the physical world users tend to practice their speeches in the comfort of their home, in the virtual world they can do it in front of a “crowd.”

“First-of-its-kind” learning platform for public speaking

Immersive Technology Lab has already been presented in various settings, including libraries, community centers, churches, and other public places, to understand how beneficial the platform is and how it can be improved.

The test results showed that the platform has increased users’ confidence, with 100% of participants stating that it helped them to feel less nervous and more prepared.

One way people prepare for public speaking is to practice at home or other safe spaces, usually without an audience. This is why, when the time comes to talk publicly, many can be taken aback by the slightest sound or gesture from the audience.

The platform aids its users by allowing them to practice in virtual reality in front of a large audience. The VR platform allows users to choose different venues to practice every night and select different types of audiences they want to present to in “fear-inducing scenarios.”

For example, a student can select a scenario in which they’re presenting their topic in a stadium, in front of 10,000 people, among flashing lights and loud noises. Once they’re “exposed” to this kind of environment, the presentation, in reality, feels like a “step down.”

Immersive Technology Lab testing revealed that such VR practice increases users' confidence and adaptability and also changes how they feel about public speaking.

How to use the free platform?

While the platform is based on a VR experience, it’s been reported that only 5% of users in the UK have VR headsets, while 99% of users own a smartphone.

Considering this, Dr. Macdonald created a platform that works not only for users with the latest VR headsets but also via smartphones inserted in a device mount. The researcher shared that this way users “get the same content and the same experience.”

The platform's creator explained to Cybernews that users who don’t have a headset can find a device mount of their choice online before using the platform. According to the scientist, such devices usually cost around £15 (around $20) or even less if they’re second-hand.

The platform is available on Android and iOS operating systems. To make this possible, the researchers first worked on compatible hardware which resulted in creating “a first-of-its-kind, dual-compatible VR player.”

Once users have their hardware ready, they can start using the platform by choosing different VR practice stages or going through additional learning material, such as reading a teleprompter in a virtual TV studio or answering questions in an interview. The platform also has a built-in AI that can help its users with their scripts.

What’s next?

Dr. Macdonald shared that the whole project was born out of an attempt to help his nephew during the COVID-19 pandemic when he had to give a college presentation.

“I ended up building a 3D digital model of a classroom environment where my nephew could access as an avatar to practice. I could access it too, as an avatar to coach him. Over time, I added NPCs as audience members,” told the scientist.

He also shared how this type of coaching helped his nephew to actually enjoy presenting, stating: “[...] it started with trying to help one person, now I want to help millions of people.”

In a world ruled by subscriptions, one of the platform's main advantages is that it’s free to use. Will that change in the future? Dr. Macdonald shared that since his main goal is to help as many people as possible, it’s important that “there is always a free version for individual use.”

The scientist also revealed his future plans to expand its services.

“I am beginning to work with organisations and healthcare providers which involves create bespoke offerings – such as custom environments, headsets, licencing options, apps, etc.,” said Dr Macdonald. Users can expect these changes in the upcoming months.

The creator of the platform hopes that with time and given feedback, the platform will become even more effective.