An interdisciplinary team of researchers from the University of Oklahoma Norman (OU Norman) and OU Health, including Interior Design professors, has published their study in the journal Virtual Reality.
The article, titled “Acceptability and Feasibility of Virtual Reality Multisensory Environments for Individuals with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Professional Caregiver Perspectives”, was authored by Dr. Yeji Yi and Dr. Negar Heidari Matin (Assistant Professors of Interior Design), Dr. Anna Nguyen (Associate Professor of Nursing), Dr. Ziho Kang (Associate Professor in the School of Industrial and Systems Engineering), Akshaya Balakrishnan (recent graduate of the Master of Science in Interior Design program), and Dr. Steven Couch (neurodevelopmental pediatrician). The study examines the potential of Virtual Reality Multisensory Environments (VR MSEs) to support sensory exploration for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders.
The research highlights that VR MSEs may serve as a feasible, scalable, and accessible alternative to traditional multisensory environments. By leveraging virtual technology, VR MSEs can reduce spatial and financial barriers while offering customizable sensory experiences that better address diverse needs.
This work was made possible through the Health, Well-Being, and the Built Environment Seed Grant and the Faculty Investment Program, provided by the OU Norman Office of the Vice President for Research and Partnerships, the OU Health Vice President for Research, and the Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture. The study was also supported by valuable partnerships with Bethany Children’s Health Center and Christian Bretz of VoyagerVR.
Read the full article in the Virtual Reality journal.
Gibbs College of Architecture congratulates Sunny Andrews (B.Arch. '05) on her promotion to Principal at Miles Architecture, an award-winning Oklahoma City design firm. Sunny also holds a Master of Business Administration from the OU Price College of Business, bringing both design leadership and strategic business expertise to her work.
Gibbs College of Architecture is proud to announce that Rachel White (B.Arch. '08) has been promoted to Principal at Miles Architecture, an award-winning Oklahoma City design firm.
Robert L. Wesley, a pioneering architect and beloved mentor, has died at age 88. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Wesley joined Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) in 1964 and became the firm's first Black partner in 1984. Throughout his career, he contributed to significant architectural projects while maintaining a strong commitment to civic engagement and professional mentorship.
