You just linked to studies that directly support my point:
"On the other hand, new users generally got up to speed more quickly with Endless OS, often due to its similarity to Windows. Many of these testers found the bottom panel to be an easy way to switch applications. They also made use of the minimize button. In comparison, both GNOME 3.38 and the prototype generally took more adjustment for these users.
“I really liked that it’s similar to the Windows display that I have.”
—Comment on Endless OS by a non-GNOME user"
"On the other hand, new users generally got up to speed more quickly with Endless OS, often due to its similarity to Windows. Many of these testers found the bottom panel to be an easy way to switch applications. They also made use of the minimize button. In comparison, both GNOME 3.38 and the prototype generally took more adjustment for these users.
“I really liked that it’s similar to the Windows display that I have.” —Comment on Endless OS by a non-GNOME user"