CECL: a chain-based framework for learning-oriented extended reality in cultural heritage and its empirical evaluation

This study proposed CECL, a chain-based framework for learning-oriented cultural heritage XR that translated cultural semantics into learning objectives, task structures, and interaction scaffolds under cognitive-load constraints. Using Helv City in Wuxi, we developed two content-equivalent VR systems and conducted a controlled experiment with 84 participants. Learning was assessed through pre-, post-, and two-week delayed tests, while cognitive load was measured using NASA-TLX, an extraneous-load subscale, and wearable EEG. Compared with display-oriented VR, educational VR improved immediate learning (Δ = 6.4, g = 0.62, p = 0.002) and retention (Δ = 5.1, g = 0.55, p = 0.006), while reducing extraneous load (Δ = −7.8, g = 0.48, p = 0.012). These findings show that learning-oriented XR depends on structured semantic translation and load regulation rather than immersion alone.