Thinking Room: Embodied Spatial Learning in Virtual Reality Harvard GSD Independent Study | Fall 2019 Instructor: Jose Luis GarcĂa del Castillo y LĂłpez By Beilei Ren This project proposes a learning experience in VR where users can interact with architectural components to map information. Extending from the psychological concept Cognitive Map, this project proposes an approach named Embodied Spatial Learning, proposing an interactive learning alternative in 3D immersive environment, which is conventionally in 2D format. The design part of the project includes user interaction design for VR, a use case demo, and a broad spectrum of user tests. Thinking Room, as a design experiment of virtual learning environment, brings up the potential of architecture as device that provides personalized learning processes and results.
[Part 01] VR Interaction Design and Storyboard Collaborated with educational project team in Arrowstreet Inc,, this project proposes an immersive learning environment in the Learning Common area in DouglasGates School, creating an experience including 360-degree projections and AR story hour. With this VR environment designed, developed and presented to the client, the architectural team was highly inspired by the potential of VR application in design collaboration and communication both within the designer team and also to the clients. My work using this low-cost, time-efficient, and engaging way of proposing the narratives of space then leads to the start of the VR research group in Arrowstreet Inc,. Douglas-Gates Ground Floor Plan
Initial Storyboard Sketch
VR Interaction Design and Storyboard
Storyboard Sketch
Arrowstreet Internship work| Fall 2019 | Immersive Learning Common| Beilei Ren
[Part 02] VR Environment Collaborated with educational project team in Arrowstreet Inc,, this project proposes an immersive learning environment in the Learning Common area in DouglasGates School, creating an experience including 360-degree projections and AR story hour. With this VR environment designed, developed and presented to the client, the architectural team was highly inspired by the potential of VR application in design collaboration and communication both within the designer team and also to the clients. My work using this low-cost, time-efficient, and engaging way of proposing the narratives of space then leads to the start of the VR research group in Arrowstreet Inc,.
VR Environment Screenshot
VR Environments
Arrowstreet Internship work| Fall 2019 | Immersive Learning Common| Beilei Ren