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BIMxAR: BIM-Empowered Augmented Reality for Learning Architectural Representations

Literature review shows limited research investigating the utilization of Augmented Reality (AR) to improve learning and understanding architectural representations, specifically section views. In this study, we present an AR system prototype (BIMxAR), its new and accurate building-scale registration method, and its novel visualization features that facilitate the comprehension of building construction systems, materials configuration, and 3D section views of complex structures through the integration of AR, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and physical buildings. A pilot user study found improvements after students studied building section views in a physical building with AR, though not statistically significant, in terms of scores of the Santa Barbara Solids Test (SBST) and the Architectural Representations Test (ART). When incorporating time as a performance factor, the ART timed scores show a significant improvement in the posttest session. BIMxAR has the potential to enhance the students spatial abilities, particularly in understanding buildings and complex section views.