Immersive Simulation in Instructional Design Studios

The paper describes the implementation of “immersive simulation studios ” at Ball State University and their impact on architectural design education. This implementation is part of our on-going research efforts aimed to expand conventionally available digital design tools by including state-of-the-art virtual reality (VR) technology in design studios. Two consecutive immersive simulation studios were held during the academic year 2013-2014; we tested teaching/learning methodologies for effectively using the VR simulation to support the students in the design of architectural spaces. The results make reference to the learning outcomes from these implementations and the level of satisfaction of students using the tool