VIRTUAL Prague Research & Teaching Conference

Abstract

Problem: Participatory processes are becoming increasingly relevant in urban development. But despite initially low citizen interest in planning processes, public engagement tends to increase as opportunities for influence diminish (participation paradox). Extended Reality (XR) applications aim to address this issue by enhancing project transparency and involving citizens early on. A key factor in this effort is the presentation format. Achieving a balance betweeen realism and abstraction is crucial for effective communication and the success of public participation. Purpose: The “XR-Part” research project investigates XR technologies in urban planning and develops a platform featuring a virtual meeting space and AR tools for immersive on-site planning experiences. Collaborations with the municipalities of  Mannheim and Rostock provided insights into XR’s role in participation processes. In Rostock, XR-Part was tested in a real-world-laboratory, highlighting challenges in creating visually consistent representations in urban planning processes. The study focuses on comparing representation styles and levels of detail in XR to improve participation outcomes. Method: A simulated citizen participation trial involved 87 first-semester architecture students (average age: 19). The participants used XR-software to explore planning models of varying detail. Feedback on these representations was collected through questionnaires and group interviews. Results: Participants preferred textured, detailed models, finding them most accessible for understanding planning content. However, these models also raised expectations for implementation. The study involved students in research to make them aware of the challenges posed by the changing professional field and underscored XR’s potential in municipal planning, emphasizing the importance of balancing detail, perspective, and communication.