Virtual Humans (VHs) are rapidly emerging as key interfaces in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) across domains such as education, healthcare, and customer services. While their technical capabilities continue to advance, a core challenge remains; designing VHs that meaningfully align with the expectations of diverse user groups. This study investigates how user age influences preferences for key VH attributes, including perceived agent age and emotional responsiveness. Based on responses from 773 participants aged 18 and above, we identify clear age-based differences in preferences for visual age and interactional expressiveness. Younger users tend to favour emotionally responsive, younger-looking VHs, while older users show preferences for mature agent personas. While context-specific VH preferences may vary, these findings reinforce the position that VH systems should, in general, incorporate adaptive, age-sensitive designs to promote inclusivity and adoption.

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Design Implications for Virtual Humans: Insights from a User Preference Study

  • Poonam Patil,
  • Surej Mouli,
  • Zhuangzhuang Dai

摘要

Virtual Humans (VHs) are rapidly emerging as key interfaces in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) across domains such as education, healthcare, and customer services. While their technical capabilities continue to advance, a core challenge remains; designing VHs that meaningfully align with the expectations of diverse user groups. This study investigates how user age influences preferences for key VH attributes, including perceived agent age and emotional responsiveness. Based on responses from 773 participants aged 18 and above, we identify clear age-based differences in preferences for visual age and interactional expressiveness. Younger users tend to favour emotionally responsive, younger-looking VHs, while older users show preferences for mature agent personas. While context-specific VH preferences may vary, these findings reinforce the position that VH systems should, in general, incorporate adaptive, age-sensitive designs to promote inclusivity and adoption.