Showing papers by "Thomas Kvan published in 2003"
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the perception and understanding of spatial volumes within immersive and non-immersive virtual environments by comparison with representation using conventional media, and examined the relative effectiveness of these conditions in enabling the translation to a tangible representation, through a series of design experiments.
Abstract: In this study, we examined the perception and understanding of spatial volumes within immersive and non-immersive virtual environments by comparison with representation using conventional media. We examined the relative effectiveness of these conditions in enabling the translation to a tangible representation, through a series of design experiments. Students experienced, assessed, and analysed spatial relationships of volumes and spaces and subsequently constructed real models of these spaces. The goal of our study is to identify how designers perceive space in Virtual Environments (VEs). We explore issues of quality, accuracy and understanding of reconstructing architectural space and forms. By comparison of the same spatial performance task undertaken within a Head Mounted Display, screen-based and real 2D environment, we are able to draw some conclusions about spatial understanding in immersive VE activity.
79 citations
TL;DR: Computer tools for design should support multiple representations of design work to identify the role of structural activities and other solution searching activities in design learning and problem solving.
Abstract: Examining case studies in design teaching and their analysis, we identify the role of structural activities and other solution searching activities in design learning and problem solving. The case studies follow students working on the same problem under two conditions - one group is taught using traditional face-to-face teaching while the other group is additionally supported by a text-based web board. The design activities of two students were followed in each condition through a semester, followed by in-depth interviews at the end of semester. The results show that cases with above average design work involved more structural activities than the mediocre cases. It also showed that design problem dissections are more organised in the better cases. These successful cases engaged in textual expression of their design solutions. Computer tools for design should therefore support multiple representations of design work.
14 citations