Exploring the use of augmented reality in enhancing museum experiences for visitors.

Thesis Abstract

**Thesis Abstract
** Augmented reality (AR) technology has gained significant attention in recent years for its potential to enhance user experiences in various fields, including museums. This thesis explores the use of AR in enhancing museum experiences for visitors, focusing on how this innovative technology can be leveraged to create immersive and interactive experiences that engage and educate museum-goers. The research begins with an examination of the background of AR technology and its application in the cultural sector, highlighting previous studies and projects that have utilized AR in museum settings. The problem statement identifies the challenges and limitations faced by traditional museum exhibits in engaging modern audiences and proposes AR as a solution to enhance visitor experiences. The objectives of the study are to investigate the impact of AR on visitor engagement and learning outcomes in museums, to explore the design considerations for implementing AR experiences in museum settings, and to evaluate the effectiveness of AR in enhancing visitor experiences. The scope of the study encompasses a review of existing AR applications in museums, the development of a prototype AR experience for a selected museum exhibit, and the evaluation of visitor responses to the AR-enhanced exhibit. The significance of the study lies in its potential to contribute to the growing body of research on the use of AR in cultural institutions and to provide insights and recommendations for museum professionals looking to incorporate AR technology into their exhibits. The structure of the thesis includes a comprehensive literature review on AR technology and museum experiences, a detailed methodology for developing and evaluating the AR prototype, a discussion of the findings from the user testing and evaluation phase, and a conclusion summarizing the key findings and implications of the study. Through a combination of theoretical analysis, practical application, and user feedback, this thesis aims to demonstrate the value of AR in enhancing museum experiences and provide guidance for museums seeking to adopt this technology to engage and educate their visitors in new and innovative ways.