Embedding Immersive Technologies Into Product Design Education: Students' Awareness of Virtual Reality as a Tool to Support the Development of Design Solutions

Abstract

Using new and emerging technologies in education can increase student engagement and support teaching methods. However, using any technological tool requires prior knowledge and understanding, especially in education. An online survey was used to gather data on product design students' knowledge of Virtual Reality (VR) technology. As a case study, this survey will examine how the use of Virtual Reality technology can impact the product design development process and design thinking. A questionnaire was distributed to product design students as part of a mixed method approach. Students' views on common design solution development practices and Virtual Reality technology were quantified and analysed through open-ended and closed-ended questions. The survey revealed students' preferred modelling and rendering software, sketching methods, level of detail in sketches, prototyping materials and tools, assessment modes and aspects. The questionnaire also assessed students' knowledge of VR and their perceptions of its utility in product design. In product/industrial design education, high student awareness of technology indicates a bright future.

Design for Extended Reality (Dfxr) – Exploring Engineering and Product Design Education in Xr

“…Additionally, this paper also presents the relevance and the essential factors for effectively implementing a DfXR approach. The ratio of produced material covering XR for design education is rapidly increasing, presenting the advantages of cross-platform interlinkage [9], establishing new ways of critical learning [21]. The need for a seamless design interaction put emphasis on an iterative prototyping process where digital alterations enrich materialised cognitions [22].…”

“…The successful implementation of XR in higher education requires the consideration of multiple areas and stakeholders. Still, little focus has been given to study the product design education can process and capture XR without presenting specific technology features or case experiences [21]. XR has the potential to enhance teaching and learning by breaking down the boundaries of traditional classrooms, establishing playful gamification scenarios [11].…”