Leveraging Augmented Reality and SLAM Technology to Preserve and Showcase Thámien Ohlone History on the Santa Clara University Campus
核心概念
Utilizing augmented reality (AR) and simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) technology to create an immersive, location-based tour that highlights the history and living culture of the Thámien Ohlone tribe on the Santa Clara University campus, while navigating the social and technical challenges of selecting appropriate SLAM anchors.
摘要
This position paper explores the power of storytelling and its connection to place through the use of augmented reality (AR) technology, particularly within the context of Thámien Ohlone history on the Santa Clara University campus. The researchers used SLAM and 8th Wall to create virtual, location-based experiences that geolocate tribal stories at present-day sites, showcase the living culture of the Thámien Ohlone tribe, and advocate for physical markers that could exist to recognize their story.
The key social considerations in selecting SLAM anchors include:
- Historical significance: Choosing locations that add to the story and highlight the "invisible history" of the Ohlone people.
- Perceived significance: Considering how the user would interact with the anchor and what the present-day site conveys.
- Stop availability: Ensuring the anchor location is publicly accessible, safe, and sustainable for the long-term tour.
- Privacy concerns: Avoiding the unintentional collection of personal information when scanning the anchors.
The technical considerations include:
- User experience: Designing the anchor and scanning process to provide a coherent and intuitive experience for users.
- Technical viability: Overcoming challenges with reflective surfaces, thin objects, and changing lighting conditions.
- Privileging the built over the natural environment: Limitations in the technology that favor distinct, built, and maintained architecture over natural landscapes.
The researchers also highlight their collaborative design process with the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe, including methods like Landmark-based Affinity Diagramming and engaging tribal youth, to ensure the tour's development and narrative align with the tribe's vision and preferences.
Sociotechnical Considerations for SLAM Anchors in Location-Based AR
统计
"Archaeological evidence suggests that the fountain stands at the center of where a village once stood."
"A 2020 working group report by scholars, university administrators, and Ohlone leaders highlights there are minimal physical markers on our university's campus highlighting the Ohlone story."
"SLAM is a popular technique for enabling augmented reality (AR) experiences to appear at specific physical locations. In SLAM, objects anchor and allow centimeter-level precision."
引用
"Why here?" is a guiding question for the Thámien Ohlone AR Tour: each of the three stops on the walking tour is selected for its connection to its location.
"To fully take advantage of this localization technology, it was important for us to utilize archeological evidence to be intentional about choosing the locations that uplift the invisible stories of past tribes."
"Because of this, choosing anchors meant picking places that enhance the story and the experience, not just spots where the technology works well."
更深入的查询
How can location-based AR experiences be designed to better incorporate and highlight natural landscapes and environmental features that are culturally significant to indigenous communities?
Incorporating natural landscapes and culturally significant environmental features in location-based AR experiences for indigenous communities requires a thoughtful and inclusive approach. One way to achieve this is by collaborating closely with indigenous communities to identify key natural elements that hold cultural significance. By involving community members in the design process, developers can gain insights into the importance of specific landscapes, plants, or water bodies in indigenous culture.
Furthermore, utilizing advanced AR technologies that can recognize and interact with natural features can enhance the incorporation of these elements. For example, using machine learning algorithms to identify and augment specific plants or geographical formations in the AR experience can help highlight their cultural significance. Additionally, creating interactive storytelling experiences that revolve around these natural landscapes can deepen the connection between users and the indigenous culture.
Designing AR experiences that blend seamlessly with the natural environment, such as overlaying digital content on specific trees or rock formations, can also contribute to a more immersive and culturally rich experience. By prioritizing the preservation and celebration of natural landscapes in AR design, developers can create experiences that honor and showcase the deep connection between indigenous communities and their environment.
What are the potential ethical concerns around the use of SLAM technology and the selection of anchors in location-based AR experiences, and how can these be addressed?
The use of SLAM technology and the selection of anchors in location-based AR experiences raise several ethical concerns that need to be addressed to ensure responsible and respectful implementation. One major concern is the potential for cultural appropriation or misrepresentation when selecting anchors that hold cultural significance to indigenous communities. Care must be taken to involve community members in the decision-making process and obtain informed consent before using sacred or culturally sensitive locations as anchors.
Privacy issues also arise with the use of SLAM technology, as scanning and mapping physical locations can inadvertently capture private or sensitive information. Developers must implement robust data protection measures and obtain consent from individuals before collecting and storing location data. Transparent communication about data usage and ensuring data security are essential steps in addressing these privacy concerns.
Moreover, there is a risk of perpetuating stereotypes or biases in the selection of anchors, which can reinforce harmful narratives or distort indigenous cultural heritage. To mitigate this risk, developers should engage in cultural sensitivity training, consult with indigenous experts, and prioritize accurate representation and respectful portrayal of indigenous stories and traditions in AR experiences.
By proactively addressing these ethical concerns through community engagement, data protection measures, and cultural sensitivity training, developers can ensure that location-based AR experiences are designed and implemented in a responsible and ethical manner.
How can the collaborative design process with indigenous communities be further strengthened and scaled to create more inclusive and impactful location-based AR experiences?
To strengthen and scale the collaborative design process with indigenous communities for location-based AR experiences, several key strategies can be implemented. Firstly, establishing long-term partnerships with indigenous groups and fostering ongoing communication and collaboration is essential. By building trust and maintaining consistent engagement, developers can ensure that indigenous voices are heard and respected throughout the design process.
Incorporating co-design principles that prioritize indigenous perspectives and knowledge is another effective way to create more inclusive and impactful AR experiences. By involving community members in all stages of the design process, from ideation to implementation, developers can co-create experiences that authentically represent indigenous culture and values.
Furthermore, providing training and resources to indigenous community members, particularly youth, can empower them to actively participate in the design and development of AR experiences. By equipping community members with the necessary skills and tools, developers can foster a sense of ownership and agency among indigenous groups, leading to more meaningful and culturally relevant AR projects.
Additionally, leveraging digital platforms and tools for remote collaboration can help scale the design process and reach a wider audience. Virtual workshops, online forums, and digital storytelling platforms can facilitate engagement with indigenous communities across different locations, enabling more people to contribute to the creation of inclusive and impactful location-based AR experiences.
By combining these strategies and approaches, developers can strengthen their collaborative efforts with indigenous communities, amplify indigenous voices, and create AR experiences that celebrate and preserve indigenous culture in a respectful and meaningful way.