The Reflexive Campus: A Study of Dynamic Architecture in a Virtual World

Abstract

This paper describes the creative as well as computational processes involved in the creation of a generative architectural construct destined to become the virtual campus of a Real Life University in Second Life®. Designed around a core spiral structure the virtual building re-configures itself based upon user demand, adding exhibition and meeting areas as well as conference halls and auditoriums, as and when required. Thus, a user-centric, emergent, dynamic construct has been implemented for a virtual campus, which evolves and changes over time and usage. The ensuing design system also attempts to configure itself based upon the nature of activity undertaken within it: Thus spaces required for survey based learning spread themselves out over the "shallow" horizontal axis, whereas areas of research and deeper levels of inquiry utilize the "deeper" vertical axis in a visual representation of different strategies of learning and levels of epistemological inquiry.2009 International Conference on CyberWorlds 978-0-7695-3791-7/09 $26.00

Effects of Virtual World Environments in Student Satisfaction

“…A unique project dedicated to creating a generative architectural virtual campus of a Real Life University in Second Life, was designed around a core spiral structure so that the virtual building re-configures itself based upon user demand, adding exhibition and meeting areas as well as conference halls and auditoriums, as and when required (Ayiter et al, 2009). This project seemingly revolves around users or learners' requirements for a suitable learning environment, which is a required initiative.…”