Learning History with Location-Based Applications: An Architecture for Points of Interest in Multiple Layers

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Digital Heritage
• Geospatial Information Systems

Background:

• Location-based applications (LBAs) integrate user location for digital experiences.
• Designing LBAs requires consideration of the real-world environment.
• Existing LBAs often have limitations for historical learning applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create an optimized database of geographically distributed points of interest (PoIs).
• To improve the learning of local history through LBAs.
• To address identified issues in current LBA solutions for heritage sites.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a requirements elicitation study at three outdoor archaeological sites.
• Designed a multi-layered prototype LBA solution.
• Evaluated the prototype with nine experts experienced in LBAs and similar systems.
• Iteratively improved the design based on expert feedback.

Main Results:

• Identified key issues and requirements for LBAs in historical learning contexts.
• Developed a novel, multi-layered prototype solution for historical site engagement.
• Incorporated expert feedback to refine the LBA design for optimal usability and educational value.

Conclusions:

• The proposed LBA design is optimized for learning local history.
• The study contributes to the LBA design literature with a heritage-focused solution.
• The iterative design process, informed by expert evaluation, enhances the practical applicability of the solution.