"I've got this…" A Longitudinal Study on the Efficacy of Reducing Test Anxiety using an AI Mind Palace.

This study evaluates the “AI Mind Palace”, a 360° virtual exam environment augmented with AI, designed to personalise revision and reduce anxiety. Grounded in cognitive theories—including the Method of Loci, context-dependent memory, Bandura’s self-efficacy, and situational inoculation—the intervention aimed to enhance confidence and preparedness. A two-year longitudinal mixed-methods study was conducted with 28 post-16 students across three assessment phases: low-, medium-, and high-stakes exams. Quantitative data from post-revision surveys and exam results indicated increased confidence and reduced anxiety, particularly in the high-stakes cohort, where 90% felt more prepared and 88% less anxious. A strong positive correlation (r ≈ 0.79) was observed between confidence and A-Level performance. Thematic analysis revealed four key experiences: spatial familiarity, environmental acclimatisation, anxiety alleviation, and strategic self-regulation. The findings suggest that immersive, AI-driven environments can effectively support exam readiness and student wellbeing, particularly in high-pressure contexts. Keywords: test anxiety, virtual reality, Method of Loci, context reinstatement, self-efficacy, stress inoculation, high-stakes assessment, personalised learning, AI Mind Palace