The four-masted Barque Peking in virtual reality as a new form of knowledge transfer

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) has established itself in recent years in the geosciences through its application in the immersive visualization of spatial data. In particular, VR offers new possibilities for the user to acquire knowledge through playful interaction within a virtual environment. This paper details the development and implementation of a new form of knowledge transfer, based on interactivity within a VR system. The particular use-case discussed is a VR application focusing on the four-masted barque Peking. From 2023 on, the restored ship will form an important exhibit in the future German Hafenmuseum in Hamburg. The new VR application offers users the possibility to enter and explore a virtual model of the Peking and find out more information at three separate points of interaction (3D object models, sails and ship flags). These interaction points provide a timely opportunity to examine several of the theoretical aspects of knowledge transfer through interactivity and integrate them in the development of the VR application. Above all, the VR application should be an important part of the learning process for the user. There remains still much potential for further research into more advanced approaches such as support for user-input questions and tailored content.