It is known that when the contexts at the encoding and the retrieval match, retrieval performance improves, and when they do not match, retrieval performance declines. This effect is called the reinstatement effect. In this study, we used two spherical images and manipulated the environmental context at encoding and retrieval using virtual reality. The number of words recalled in free recall test was compared in a two-factor within-subjects design like Godden & Baddeley (1975), and no reinstatement effect was found. In addition, there was a positive correlation between presence measured by IPQ and number of words recalled. The results are discussed in terms of the mental context of the virtual reality experiences, which is distinguished from that of real experiences.
