ATTN: 2077 and Informal Learning Case Study Report Conclusion
General Gravity,
There is a ton of technology integrated into the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites. The audio tour plays in 9 different languages and every tour marker I listened to functioned well. I had no issue with sound or static interference, I could easily control my volume, and I found the audio helpful rather than detracting during the visit.
The VR application is where technology integration is showing the most promise and I think we should try to manipulate it in our future endeavors. In Image 1, a map of the USS Arizona is shown. By gazing at the yellow dot, the viewer moves to show you the various parts of the deck. Once on the ship, you can navigate forward and backward as you “walk” on the virtual representation of the Arizona (See Image 2).
Image 1: Map of USS Arizona
Image 2: On the deck of the virtual USS Arizona
Within the app, you can choose to explore the virtual replica of the memorial. Image 3 is the ramp from the boat into the memorial. Image 4 shows a bird’s eye view of the memorial and the outline of the USS Arizona under the water.
Image 3
Image 4
Image 5 shows another viewpoint on the memorial with information from the diver. At each point, you are able to see a panoramic view of Pearl Harbor from the memorial. Image 6 shows a partial, zoomed-in segment of the wall of names. Within this section, you can view the wall all at once or zoom in to read the names more clearly.
Image 5
Image 6
Image 7
Image 8
Here's where we may need to watch out.
While the implementation of technology is thoughtful and enhances the exhibits, there are a few ways in which technology is detrimental to the experience. First, though not the fault of the museum, there is a PokemonGo marker on the actual site of the USS Arizona Memorial. You cannot reach it unless you are physically on the platform. While no one was actively trying to catch virtual Pokemon, it would certainly detract from the experience if some visitors decided to play while at the Memorial. PokemonGo was unfortunately identified as the catalyst that began the destruction of civilized society and we should be avoiding it where possible.*
Second, while the VR application is very interesting, one negative is that there is not a lot of educational value occurring while using it. It is clear from articles and interviews that the eventual goal is to be able to educate through the application, but it is currently missing the mark in that aspect. (McMamay, 2017).
Third, while touring the museums at the Visitor Center, I noticed that several of the screens were not functioning. I went to the museum on two separate days, and both times there were issues with the same screens. If the material that is normally playing on those screens is not duplicated elsewhere, information is not being received by the guest.
*I actually love playing PokemonGo...story line purposes only. ;)
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