Location-Based Augmented Reality for Cultural Heritage Communication and Education: The Doltso District Application

Abstract

Location-based Augmented Reality applications are increasingly used in many research and commercial fields. Some of the fields that these applications are used are recreational digital games, tourism, education, and marketing. This study aims to present a location-based augmented reality (AR) application for cultural heritage communication and education. The application was created to inform the public, especially K12 students, about a district of their city with cultural heritage value. Furthermore, Google Earth was utilized to create an interactive virtual tour for consolidating the knowledge acquired by the location-based AR application. A scheme for evaluating the AR application was also constructed using factors suitable for location-based applications: challenge, educational usefulness (knowledge), collaboration, and intention to reuse. A sample of 309 students evaluated the application. Descriptive statistical analysis showed that the application scored well in all factors, especially in challenge and knowledge (mean values 4.21 and 4.12). Furthermore, structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis led to a model construction that represents how the factors are causally related. Based on the findings, the perceived challenge significantly influenced the perceived educational usefulness (knowledge) (b = 0.459, sig = 0.000) and interaction levels (b = 0.645, sig = 0.000). Interaction amongst users also had a significant positive impact on users’ perceived educational usefulness (b = 0.374, sig = 0.000), which in turn influenced users’ intention to reuse the application (b = 0.624, sig = 0.000).

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“…The main purpose of the research was to inspire educators and set an example for further similar educational applications, which could be more tailored and appropriately designed for the target age audience. Taleblazer was chosen mainly for a number of advantages compared to similar tools mentioned elsewhere (Kleftodimos et al, 2023a). Prior to the creation of the games, the relevant literature on spatially sensitive educational games for history and cultural heritage was studied in order to exploit specific design features that could enrich, and enhance a location-based augmented reality experience.…”

“…"Doltso: A Traditional District of Kastoria in the Passage of Time" is designed by the Center for Education for the Environment and Sustainability of Kastoria. Its aim is to get students to know the Byzantine and post-Byzantine churches, the imposing mansions, and the historical buildings of the homonymous preserved district (Kleftodimos et al, 2023a).…”

Creating Location-Based Augmented Reality Games and Immersive Experiences for Touristic Destination Marketing and Education

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