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Memory Palaces in Virtual Reality: Exploring a Spatial Learning Method
📅 Monday 18/05 14:00-15:30h
📍 Workshop Space B
🔎 Needs Analysis
This workshop introduces PhD candidates to the memory palace technique (method of loci) using a Virtual Reality (VR) environment to practice how structured spatial encoding supports recall. Participants will practice applying the technique in a controlled learning scenario, complete a brief memory task, and reflect on their experience. By taking part, they gain practical insight into experimental design, measurement challenges, and the potential benefits and limitations of immersive technologies like VR. The hands-on experience gives participants practical skills that can be applied in their own research.
📒 Session Description
In this workshop, PhD students are introduced to the memory palace technique (method of loci) and explore its potential and limitations as a strategy for structuring and recalling academic content. Following a short theoretical input, they practice applying the technique in a structured learning scenario, either within a research prototype Virtual Reality (VR) environment or by constructing a mental memory palace.
During this guided exercise, participants actively create spatial associations and organize information within a palace structure. Afterwards, findings are discussed in a reflection phase, where participants compare the VR and mental approaches, examine how the learning strategy affected recall, and critically evaluate whether VR is a useful tool for applying the memory palace technique.
💡 Learning Objectives
By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
- Learn how to use the method of loci
- Practice applying the technique in a short learning task
- Understand how spatial structures can support memory
- Observe how different learning environments (VR vs. mental) and strategies affect recall
- Learn how VR can make abstract concepts or content more tangible