Spatial navigation in virtual reality

For the past decade, we have carried out a number of participation projects using full-scale modelling as an aid for communication and design. We are currently participating in an interdisciplinary research project which aims to combine and compare various visualization methods and techniques, among others, full-scale modelling and virtual reality, in design processes with users. In this paper, we will discuss virtual reality as a design tool in light of previous experience with full-scale modelling and literature on cognitive psychology. We describe a minor explorative study, which was carried out to elucidate the answers to several crucial questions: Is realism in movement a condition for the perception of space or can it be achieved while moving through walls, floors and so forth? Does velocity of movement and reduced visual field have an impact on the perception of space? Are landmarks vital clues for spatial navigation and how do we reproduce them in virtual environments? Can “daylight”, color, material and texture facilitate navigation and are details, furnishings and people important objects of reference? How could contextual information clues, like views and surroundings, be added to facilitate orientation? Do we need our other senses to supplement the visual experience in virtual reality and what is the role of mental maps in spatial navigation?