Abstract
The integration of digital learning and ICT in architectural design education, particularly in studying ancient architecture, has been transformative. This study focuses on how virtual embodiment in VR affects learning experiences, engagement, and outcomes in ancient Chinese architecture education. A digital landscape of Nanchan Temple was created on VRchat for this purpose, involving 22 architecture students divided into two groups: one with a virtual body (VB group) and the other using only controllers (NB group). The study assessed a sense of embodiment, simulator sickness (SS), virtual tour experience, and a grasp of spatial information through questionnaires and task performance metrics. The VB group reported a stronger sense of embodiment in the virtual environment, indicating that a virtual body enhances engagement, contributes to a deeper understanding of architectural concepts, and improves learning quality in the educational experience. They also showed a higher sense of presence and were more efficient in completing interactive tasks, supporting the idea that virtual bodies improve spatial perception. However, the VB group experienced higher levels of SS, suggesting a challenge in aligning virtual and physical sensations. In conclusion, the presence of a virtual body in VR significantly improves immersion, engagement, and learning outcomes in architectural education, particularly in the context of ancient Chinese architecture. The study highlights the potential of virtual embodiment in educational scenarios and suggests the need for further technological improvements to mitigate simulator sickness.
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Acknowledgments
This study was generously supported by a grant from the Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s USC-SJTU Institute of Cultural and Creative Industry (ICCI). The authors extend their gratitude to ICCI for their support and belief in the potential of this research. Special thanks are also to the faculty and students of the Department of Architecture at Huaqiao University for their participation and insightful feedback. The authors acknowledge the contributions of all who have supported and facilitated this research, directly or indirectly, in making this study possible.
The authors have no competing interests to declare that are relevant to the content of this article.
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Chen, Y., Shen, S., Hua, M. (2024). Enhancing Ancient Architecture Virtual Learning Tour Through Virtual Embodiment: Impact on Immersion, Engagement, and Learning Outcomes. In: Chen, J.Y.C., Fragomeni, G. (eds) Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality. HCII 2024. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, vol 14708. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-61047-9_1
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