Developing Digital Skills for Architectural Heritage: A Didactic Approach to 3D Mapping and Phygital Storytelling

Abstract

This paper explores the role of digital and phygital technologies in enhancing architectural heritage education through two didactic workshops conducted in Sharjah (UAE) and Cluj-Napoca (Romania). Aimed at bridging the gap between theoretical heritage studies and applied digital practice, the workshops engaged architecture students in 3D photogrammetry, modeling, VR/AR applications, and 3D printing. The study investigates how immersive and tactile tools -particularly phygital approaches that combine physical and digital experiences- support skill acquisition, spatial interpretation, and collaborative learning. Through a mixed-methods evaluation, including surveys and observational data, the research examines the influence of regional, educational, and cultural factors on learner engagement and tool preferences. Results reveal differing emphases: immersive visualization dominated in Sharjah, while hands-on documentation and model precision prevailed in Cluj-Napoca. The findings contribute to the development of context-sensitive pedagogical strategies for digital heritage, offering a comparative framework for integrating technological training with heritage awareness in architectural education.