Beyond the Blueprint: Exploring Virtual Reality and Speculative Design in Architectural Pedagogy

Abstract

This work presents an exploratory study aimed at investigating how virtual reality (VR) and speculative design could be utilized within sustainable architecture education. Research-through-Design (RtD) methodology forms the core of this study, placing design as an integral part of the methodology, to produce unique analyses of educational processes and evaluate VR and speculative design's application and impact in teaching sustainable architecture. The presented undergraduate course took place at Tampere University, combining VR and speculative design to develop and visualize a speculative scenario for the city's future. Through a thematic analysis of produced design artifacts and student reflections, this study highlights the potential of VR and speculative design to advance sustainable architectural education. Findings indicate that this integrative approach fosters innovative thinking, critical reflection, and increased knowledge of sustainable architecture's complexity. Furthermore, the study provides insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by utilizing emerging technologies and speculative methodologies in architectural education. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on innovative pedagogies in sustainable architecture.