Table Cape Educational VR Simulation

Research Background (RB): This project involves Table Cape Educational VR Experience, a research-creation initiative that combines Digital Technologies (DT) and Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS). A modular high-fidelity virtual simulation was configured, based on the digitisation of Table Cape, a place situated at the north west of Tasmania, which is a 13-million-year-old extinct volcano known for its educational and tourism values. This creative project offers educators, students, and the public an accessible option for visualising 3D scanned miniaturised Table Cape in virtual reality (VR). It is a joint initiative involving contributors from the University of Tasmania (School of Education), Business Northwest, and the Waratah Wynyard Council. 

Research Contribution (RC): The contribution of the exhibition work informs how VR technology can be adapted for STEM and digital heritage visualisation - An original technique was innovated as part of the process of digitising the terrain of the extinct volcano (Table Cape), using a hybrid approach of fusing the 3D scanned artefact (photogrammetry 3D mesh) and high-resolution aerial map provided by Waratah Wynyard Council. Focused on the perceived ease-of-use and perceived usefulness of the user experience design, the development process was mainly guided by Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) (Davis, 1989). This interactive multimedia creative work also features a reconstructed heritage lighthouse and Robert Jackson, a historical character (recreated using an artificial intelligent (AI) assisted workflow), who was the first Superintendent Head Lightkeeper (1888) at Table Cape Lighthouse, for immersive storytelling simulation.

Research Significance (RS): The creative exhibition took place 30 June - 30 September at Wonders of Wynyard Exhibition & Visitor Information Centre, Tasmania, which is part of the Sensing Table Cape initiative led by Business Northwest. The project led to a full peer-reviewed paper presented at the ACM SIGGRAPH Asia Educators Forum. Sydney, 12-15 December 2023.