Virtual Spatial Discovery

Project Scope

Investigate 3-D modelling software in a virtual reality environment to enhance spatial understanding using Google Cardboard.

Why?

​Difficulties for educators to communicate the complexities of 3D space

What is VR?

• Virtual Reality is an immersive experience that simulates the users physical presence in a Computer Generated environment.
• Barriers to adoption.
• Google Cardboard solution.

Project Goals

• Bridging communication barriers of novice designers.
• Aiding students discovery and understanding of space.
• Leveraging student's existing technology.

FITT Academy Goals

1. Revise schedule of current IDE103 course to include a virtual reality visualization component.
2. Develop an assessment comparing student understanding of spatial concepts pre and post VR instruction.
3. Investigate whether the presentation of student work in a virtual reality environment is feasible. 
4. Evaluate viewer options and cost.

Course Assignments

Introduction to VR Lecture

• Introduction to VR
• Applications in Industry
• Cost / Benefit 
• Open Environment

VR Student Project

• Create 3D Model in Sketchup
• Import Sketchup Model into Kubity
• Present Model in Virtual Reality

Research in VR and Education

• Spatial Aptitude Test to Assess Baseline

• Divide Students into Two Groups
  1. Traditional using 2D media
  2. Virtual Reality 

• Compare Data