Opinion: Simulation in lighting design and research

摘要

Simulation in architectural lighting design, research and education is essential. The basic question is: how effective is the simulation of design ideas in achieving the objectives? Some scholars believe that the objectives and the measurement system should be decided before efforts to achieve the objectives are made. Only then is a judgement made of the achievement's value. Others, perhaps working in other than achievement-oriented cultures and educational settings, would argue for a more open approach in which the objectives emerge during the design of the simulation. Both perspectives are valid within their own logic and may be seen as mutually exclusive. Whether that is the case or not, some form of evaluation is certainly important for the learning we wish to promote, even if this is accomplished only during the process of design. Valid and sustained evaluation is more important still for the profession. This could be accomplished by elaborate objective-based, achievement-oriented, quantitative, longitudinal study, or by more informal, subjective and participatory assessment.