This year, the first six students successfully completed their bachelor studies at the FAST BUT Institute of Building Structures, whose exams took place in augmented and virtual reality.

The students presented their designs for the Bachelor's State Examinations using special glasses and several connected devices, including a large screen and a projector. They described and explained the chosen structural system, materials, layout and energy solutions, ventilation, heating, furnishings or the use of a particular building layout. Two of the examiners joined the virtual environment during the examination, walked through the building together and had space to ask questions and complete the work according to the opponent's judgement. 3D models can be decomposed in virtual reality (VR) into individual structural elements, layers or sections to show specific solutions and details. Everything is done in real time. In addition, the examination committee could also open the project documentation on their computer or tablet at any time using a QR code.

"The VR approach to design represents a major shift in the design of civil engineering structures. Students can now present their designs with a continuity and detail that was not possible before, plus they perceive everything on a realistic scale. Virtual and augmented reality not only allows for the visualisation of building design solutions, but also for interactive tours of them. This innovative way of designing and presenting pushes the boundaries of our field and brings new possibilities for teaching and practice. I am excited that our students have the opportunity to use this technology and believe it will greatly enhance their readiness for real-world design practice and give students a significant competitive advantage. I am glad that my colleagues and I found students who were not afraid and wanted to try what will be the standard in the future," says professor Jan Pěnčík.