Exploring the Learning Effects of a VR-AI Integrated Information Platform for Age-Friendly Residential Design - A Workshop Study with International Students -

This exploratory study investigates the learning effects of a VR-AI integrated information platform designed to support education on aging-friendly residential environments.As South Korea enters a super-aged society, the need to cultivate positive awareness and evidence-based understanding of elder housing among younger generations has become increasingly urgent.The platform combines immersive VR navigation with generative AI video guides offering multidisciplinary concepts.Six international undergraduate students participated in a short-term intensive workshop where they explored a VR model of an aging-friendly compact dwelling and accessed AI-generated instructional videos embedded at spatial points.Learning outcomes were examined across four dimensions: perceived enjoyment and usefulness, clarity of differentiated levels, changes in attitudes toward elderly housing, and reflections on the combined use of VR and AI.Survey results showed high interest and comprehension, while qualitative responses indicated greater empathy and more positive perceptions of elderly housing.Students also reported that the contextualized AI video guides enhanced engagement by presenting key concepts within spatial locations where such knowledge is most relevant.The findings indicate that VR-AI integrated learning promotes aging-friendly awareness and supports immersive and efficient learning.This study provides preliminary evidence for the applicability of immersive technology in gerontology-related design and for curriculum development in super-aged societies.