THEMATIC SESSION #2
Transforming Research and Clinical Interventions with eXtended Reality
ORGANIZED BY
Francesca Bruni
Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, eCampus University, Novedrate, Italy
Valentina Mancuso
Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, eCampus University, Novedrate, Italy
ABSTRACT
eXtended Reality (XR) -encompassing Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality- represents an innovative paradigm in gerontological research and clinical interventions. This thematic session critically examines the emerging potential of XR as a powerful approach to addressing complex challenges in aging research and healthcare. Digital environments enable researchers to develop sophisticated tools that transcend conventional methodological limitations, offering novel assessment and rehabilitation opportunities.
The forum will explore how XR technologies can revolutionize traditional therapy and rehabilitation strategies by creating immersive, interactive, personalized experiences.
The session explores XR applications across diverse domains including, but not limited to: neurological disease management, physiological and cognitive intervention strategies, user experience design, design solutions, and tangible interfaces. We invite interdisciplinary researchers to present empirical research, theoretical frameworks, and innovative design solutions that examine XR's transformative potential in supporting healthcare.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZERS
FRANCESCA BRUNI
Ph.D. candidate in Psychology at eCampus University and junior researcher at IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, with research focused on the intersection of User Experience and emerging technologies in clinical settings. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, the research investigates how users interact with virtual reality and 360° media environments, particularly in the neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation field. Drawing on expertise in psychometrics and research methodology, the work specializes in designing user-centered technological solutions for aging and neurological patients. Research activities combine rigorous scientific methods with innovative design approaches to develop evidence-based tools for clinical applications.
VALENTINA MANCUSO
Post Doc Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Psychometrics, specialized in developing innovative tools for cognitive assessment and emotional elicitation. Research expertise includes conducting and analyzing semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis to capture the lived experience of participants in virtual environments, alongside quantitative measurements. Designed and implemented assessment protocols that blend emerging technologies (i.e., virtual reality and 360° videos) with mixed methods approaches, combining psychometric validation with in-depth phenomenological analysis of user experiences. Experience in assessment tool construction is characterized by the systematic integration of quantitative (psychometric and psychophysiological) and qualitative data (thematic analysis of interviews, user experience evaluation), allowing for comprehensive evaluation of psychological constructs. Scientific production in high-impact factor international journals demonstrates innovative contributions to psychological and neuropsychological assessment.