Abstract
This is an exploratory paper that studies the controversies with public perception in participatory design, and the possible implications of machine learning and artificial intelligence to fill in the variances. It first tackles the current uses and gaps in participatory design, introducing Neuroarchitecture and its relation to user experiences. It is then followed by research and case studies on the application of sentiment analysis and eye tracking glasses. The study aims to bring about new paradigms by turning qualitative perspectives into a quantitative relationship between users and their environment, analysing patterns that are traced from verbal observation. The researcher first utilised traditional means of data collection (Online questionnaires and intercept surveys). The datasets are then screened through the new technologies implemented. After processing the sentiment analysis of the respondents, eye tracking data recorded by the participants are used to compliment the numbers produced. The results presented scatterplot style diagrams and polarity values to determine the overall positive and negative reactions to the online questionnaire about the two spaces- Geylang Road and Keong Saik Road. Subsequently, the eye tracking recordings illustrated the visual gaze patterns and fixations. This was projected in visual keyframes, identifying polarised values and it’s relation to human behaviour using heat maps and Areas of Interest (AOI). Therefore, this research is an introductory to what may be the future of urban planning and design, with the rise of new radical technology with versatile 7 applications. It attempts the use of AI and machine learning to align with humanistic goals.