Architectural Studies lecturer, Russell Lowe discovers a new role for computer gaming technology within the classroom. FBE students are now able to design and test the built environment in real-time using modified video games.
“The technology adds a new level of interactivity, enabling students to move around and understand the environment they have designed”, said Mr. Lowe.
“Whether it is a new train station, airport or playground, students can use this technology to jump into their designs and see exactly what they are like, and what may need changing”, added Mr. Lowe.
This semester, over 200 FBE students will get to use games such as Unreal Tournament 3 and Half Life 2, with custom generated geometries and textures to design buildings and their surrounds.
Architecture students will have fun learning how to design buildings whilst able to continuously experience their designs and problem solve at every stage, from beginning to completion.
Host of ABC television show Good Game, Steven ‘Bajo’ O’Donnell was impressed with the development, “it is good to see different applications for games pushing learning and teaching forward – the future of gaming is only going to get better”.
The technology is also used to enable a classroom of students to take virtual tours of each others projects, providing a valuable avenue for peer feedback.
Keep a look out for the feature on Russell’s use of gaming technology for teaching on Good Game, ABC2.
