Virtual Agent Driven Peer Learning System to Enhance Exercise Motivation

Abstract

In this study, we propose a system that leverages peer learning to enhance exercise motivation by facilitating mutual instruction and feedback between users and conversational agents on exercise performance. The system aims to address the challenge of maintaining motivation for continuous exercise, which is recommended for preventing lifestyle-related diseases that have become an increasing health concern. The proposed system implements a peer learning environment where the user and agent take turns acting as an exercise buddy—performing exercises and offering advice to improve each other’s form. Over 80% of participants reported enjoying exercising more with this reciprocal system compared to one with unilateral instruction from the agent. These findings suggest peer learning between users and conversational agents could effectively boost motivation for exercise.