Virtual reality as a communication medium: investigating the impact of virtual embodiment on various stakeholders of an architecture project

Abstract

Researchers argue that our body and our intentional actions in the environment impact how we perceive and understand the world. In the last few decades, the theory of embodied cognition has been tested across different disciplines using VR systems. Immersive technologies, such as VR, emerged a few decades ago, and are now finding increased adoption in architecture and interior design with workflows becoming easier and cost of technology becoming more affordable. In this study, the author investigated the effects of virtual embodiment on design comprehension in individuals with and without architectural design backgrounds. Virtual embodiment refers to the idea of having a virtual body or avatar, being inside and in control of the avatar. Virtual embodiment was operationalized as ‘body representation' and ‘agency.' Body representation was systematically manipulated using two levels of ‘full body' avatar and ‘hands only.' Agency was manipulated using ‘direct' and ‘indirect interaction.' The results suggest that virtual embodiment affect perception and cognition of architects and non-architects in a different manner. Furthermore, the findings suggest that body representation and interaction both contribute to the notion of agency and can have a compensatory effect.