Effects of nature virtual backgrounds on creativity during videoconferencing

Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated that exposure to nature environments versus urban environments can help restore cognitive processing and improve overall well-being. The current study examined the restorative effects of nature on creativity using virtual backgrounds during videoconferencing on Zoom. Eighty participants completed the Alternative Uses Test (AUT) of creative divergent thinking when viewing one of three different virtual background images: nature setting, urban setting, plain grey background (control). Results showed that the nature background facilitated higher creativity performance compared to either the urban or control backgrounds (which did not significantly differ from each other). The results are discussed in terms of practical implications for workplace and educational environments that involve videoconferencing sessions between users.