The utilization of digital tools in the development of participatory conservation recommendations for cultural heritage assets

With the rapid evolution of technology, digital software has become increasingly prevalent across various domains. Within the architectural discipline, the utilization of these technologies holds significant importance as we evolve into a digital era. This thesis investigates whether the emerging trend of virtual reality applications, in conjunction with digital documentation techniques, can establish a workflow that impacts decision-making processes related to the conservation, promotion, and functional transformation of cultural heritage elements and architectural structures, thereby facilitating public engagement in the process. The research focuses on the digital modeling of the historic Journalists' Union building located in the Iskenderun district. Subsequently, the constructed model is integrated into a virtual reality environment, incorporating different variants aimed at assessing diverse parameters that may influence decision-making mechanisms. Pre and post-experiment surveys, along with face-to-face interviews are conducted to compare participants' responses, analyzing the impact on decision alterations. The findings suggest that participants' exploration of cultural heritage within a virtual reality setting influences their decision-making regarding anticipated changes to the structure, even guiding the process through interpretative commentary, thus enabling active participation in the decision-making process.