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Knowledge Base Repository

In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.

Virtual reality-supported empathy in design: experimental evidence on problem framing and ideation

Hu, Xinhui (1,2); Casakin, Hernan (3); Georgiev, Georgi V. (4,1)

Type:
Papers
DS 145: Proceedings of the DESIGN2026 19th International Design Conference
Year:
2026
Editor:
Štorga, M.; Škec, S.; Martinec, T.; Marjanović, D.; Pavković, N.
Author:
Hu, Xinhui (1,2); Casakin, Hernan (3); Georgiev, Georgi V. (4,1)
Series:
DESIGN
Institution:
1: Center for Ubiquitous Computing, University of Oulu, Finland; 2: School of Information Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States of America; 3: School of Architecture, Ariel University, Israel; 4: Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Japan
Page(s):
597-606
DOI number:
10.1017/pds.2026.10418
ISSN:
2732-527X (Online)
Abstract:
Gaps in lived experience hinder designers from understanding users. Virtual Reality (VR) may bridge this gap with immersive simulations, but its validity lacks comprehensive examination. This study addresses that gap via a VR scenario simulating the challenges of essential tremor (involuntary hand movements). Following the experience, designers demonstrated significantly enhanced empathy and a deeper user understanding. This translated into more accurate and contextually grounded problem framing. Designers’ rationales also suggest they intuitively internalized core design thinking principles.
Keywords:
virtual reality (VR), user-centred design, design thinking, empathic design, ideation
DESIGN2026 - The 19th International Design Conference
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