Designing in different realities: how virtual environment fidelity influences design thinking-Insights from pilot studies
Date
2024
Authors
Masoumzadeh, S.
Yu, R.
Gu, N.
Bornkessel Schlesewsky, I.
Cao, J.
Zhang, F.
Editors
Zhang, F.
Advisors
Journal Title
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Volume Title
Type:
Conference paper
Citation
Harmony in Architectural Science and Design: Sustaining the Future. Proceedings of the 57th International Conference of the Architectural Science Association, 2024 / Zhang, F. (ed./s), pp.180-187
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Conference Name
57th International Conference of the The Architectural Science Association (26 Nov 2024 - 29 Nov 2024 : Gold Coast , Australia)
Abstract
Though Virtual Reality (VR) is increasingly integrated into architectural design, there are nuances that require further exploration before it can be fully embraced in practice. This study explores how different levels of fidelity (LoF) in VR environments influence design thinking, focusing on the timing and frequency of Function (F), Behaviour (Be, Bs), Structure (S), and Context (C) codes using protocol analysis. Expert designers engaged in architectural concept design tasks within both High-Fidelity and Low-Fidelity Environments (HFEs and LFEs). Findings suggest that LFE displays a higher density of transitions early in the design process, indicating rapid idea exploration; potentially linked to creativity. In contrast, HFE shows a steadier rate, overtaking LFE later in transition density, suggesting deeper engagement. Analyses also suggest that HFE tasks encourage early contextual integration, whereas LFE tasks allow flexibility in engaging with context. These results highlight VR environment fidelity’s impact on design processes, with LFEs supporting broader conceptual exploration and HFEs enhancing contextual integration. If the findings of this paper are generalisable, they could contribute to the development of Virtual Environments (VE) that foster and enhance the design process.
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Copyright 2024 The author(s).