Physical modelling of interior space as a predictor of student engagement

Interior space modelling as part of simulation technology is crucial to support the study of interior design. Various simulation techniques have been used for spatial modelling, such as manual and digital drawing, while widely used physical interior models are so far made customized to meet a particular form of design. In other words, such space modelling is by nature fixed or not meant to be used for various needs of modelling tasks. As a result, the interior design study process can become difficult for those who are less able to make manual or digital drawings. It may have a psychological impact on the student’s engagement and motivation. This study aimed to examine the role of a previously developed interior space modelling tool in supporting the study process and student engagement. The research method used for this project is an experiment that involves 48 interior design students. The analysis of data reveals that a modelling tool has a significant effect on study engagement for the group of respondents who can only draw but are less able to use a computer to create digital simulations. Meanwhile, for those who have already been able to make a digital simulation, their engagement response to the space modelling tool is less significant.