Subjective responses to simulated and real environments: A comparison

Abstract

In order to assess the validity of computer-generated environment simulations, an empirical field study was conducted. First a computer model of a real urban park environment was developed and used to produce both daylight and night-time animations of a 3min walk into and through the park. The level of visual detail is high with all trees, buildings and hard surfaces correctly textured. Moving vehicles are also included. Sounds recorded on-site along the selected path were dubbed onto the animations and recorded on videotape. Then an elaborated questionnaire was constructed which measures respondents' cognitive and affective reactions to the presented environment, including impressions of th..