Sustainable street design approach by considering the behavioral patterns of drivers and their environmental perceptions

What is the purpose of this research?

This study aims to understand driver behaviour by using an immersive virtual reality driving simulation. By experiencing realistic urban environments and different street conditions, your participation helps drive our research forward to contribute to safer streets for everyone.

Are you looking for people like me?

We are looking for participants who:

• are 18 years of age or older
• hold a valid driver's licence
• are an active driver in Queensland.

What will you ask me to do?

Total participation time is approximately 40 minutes. You will be asked to complete two parts:

1. Online Survey (20 minutes): Answer questions about your background, driving habits, and visual responses to different street environments.
2. VR Driving Simulation (20 minutes): Drive in a realistic virtual environment at the CLEVAR LAB (Gardens Point Campus S Blok 10th floor S1031) using a steering wheel and pedals to experience different street conditions.

Are there any risks for me in taking part?

There are no risks beyond normal day-to-day living associated with your participation in the survey part of this research project. However, there are some risks associated with the VR section, which include:

• simulation sickness: (motion sickness, headaches, nausea, dizziness, etc.). You can alert the session facilitator to take a resting period or completely terminate the experiment based on your symptoms and personal choice
• falling or tripping: the room will be cleared of all obstacles and monitored by a facilitator to minimise this risk.

QUT provides limited free psychology, family therapy, or counselling services for participants experiencing discomfort or distress (call 07 3138 0999, Monday–Friday 9am–5pm). Alternatively, you can contact Lifeline (13 11 14) or Kids Helpline (1800 551 800) for 24-hour support.

Are there any benefits for me in taking part?

It is expected that this research project will not benefit you directly. However, the outcomes of the research may be highly beneficial to those interested in issues related to sustainable urban street design, safe mobility, and identifying needed improvements in design processes for safer street environments.

Will I be compensated for my time?

Yes, to recognise your contribution, compensation is provided based on your choice of participation:

• Prize draw: all participants who complete the full online survey have the option to enter a prize draw to win one of five $30 Woolworths gift cards (entries open 05 June 2026 and close 25 July 2026).
• Coffee voucher: everyone who participates in and completes the physical VR experience in the lab will also receive a Merlo regular size coffee gift card.

I am interested - what should I do next?

You will be asked to read the full Participant Information Sheet and indicate your consent by selecting “agree” before starting the survey and VR experiment (no written signature is required).

VR experience

If participating in the VR experience: you will book your slot, complete the online survey first on the computer in the VR lab, familiarise yourself with the steering wheel and VR headset, and then complete the 20-minute simulation.

Book your VR session

Online survey

If participating in the survey only: If you do not wish to participate in the VR experience, you can complete the standalone 20-minute online survey on your own device using the link below and choose to enter the prize draw upon completion.

If you plan to take part in the VR experience, you are expected to complete the online survey on the computer in the VR lab before your session.

Access online survey