Enhancing collaborative learning in architectural design education through human-computer interaction and game-based learning

Abstract

This study uses a game-based learning approach to develop a collaborative environment for basic design in architectural education and examines its impacts. The foundational concept of the virtual environment is the playground, defined by Walz (2010) as a bounded space where play occurs. The virtual playground is introduced to basic design students based on the CIX game (1996), developed from a geometry-based system by architect Fabien Vienne (1925-2016). CIX is reconstructed in a multi-user virtual playground with Simlab Soft simulation software, facilitating interactive and collaborative design environments. The VR-enhanced environment is adapted to facilitate the playground for a basic architectural design platform. To assess the effectiveness of the participatory design experience proposed with the multi-user environment, the Collaborative Learning Assessment (CLA) (Muñoz-Carril et al., 2021) and Game Experience Survey (Martin-Dorta et al., 2014) are conducted. The findings suggest that a game-based collaborative design environment offers significant potential for immersive, interactive, and impactful learning experiences and can be an effective tool for basic design studios.