This study investigates baseline modalities for evaluating Augmented Reality (AR) avatar guidance in asynchronous collaboration on spatially complex tasks. A formative study with three participants compared smartphone video, HoloLens video, and AR avatars across usability, collaboration, learning, and spatial awareness. Results suggest smartphone video as a reliable baseline due to usability and familiarity. Avatars showed potential for enhancing spatial awareness, task engagement, and learning outcomes but require interface improvements. Despite the small sample size, this study offers insights into immersive technologies for industrial training and collaboration.
