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Immersion
In design we often talk about "immersive" environments as desirable. Immersion is a state of focus by an individual which becomes so intense that awareness of outside influences or "the real world" is lost. This can result in a feeling of satisfaction or fulfillment.
Immersion is a fine line of challenge to perception on cognitive reasoning. Too little information and the brain becomes bored; too much and it becomes frustrated. But under the right conditions, the brain, gaining input at near capacity without being exceeded, can experience an intense sense of satisfaction. Immersion can occur when working on a project, enjoying entertainment, reading a book, painting, listening to music, playing a game, participating in a sport--nearly any activity.
According to Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (yes, that's his real name) in his 1991 book, "Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience," some characteristics of immersion include:
- A feeling of control over actions, activities and environment
- A loss of awareness of the worries of everyday life
- A loss of concern regarding matters of self (hunger, thirst, pain)
- A loss of sense concerning time (hours pass quickly)
- An environment where people can focus without significant distraction
- A challenge to the mind which can be accomplished or overcome
- Immediate feedback with respect to overall performance
Immersive experiences need not be mentally engaging--a theme park ride, for instance, can be extremely immersive based on sensory input alone. Conversely, immersion can be mentally engaging as well, such as a game of chess, which has little sensory input but requires great mental concentration. However, in general it is easier to create immersive experiences based on sensory input than on mental engagement. Sensory immersion generally lasts for shorter periods of time. An immersive experience that combines both sensory experience and cognitive reasoning would be very powerful.
Immersion is difficult to achieve and takes time and experimentation. Immersive experiences can be designed for entertainment, instruction, games, exhibits, programs or events. Minimize distractions, promote a feeling of control and challenge without being overwhelming. Concentrate on stimuli that take people away from the "real world."
> For more information on immersion, click here.
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