A Virtual Reality and Human Factors Analysis of a Renovated Diorama Hall

Abstract Four features of the Virtual Reality (VR) computer environment were used to describe advantages of science learning in a museum environment. Like VR, a museum exhibit can be a (1) three-dimensional, (2) dynamic, (3) closed-loop interactive, and (4) an ego-referenced learning environment. A VR conceptualization is especially appropriate for exhibits, like dioramas, that are intended to give visitors a “real world” experience. In addition, applications from human factors (HF) research on information displays can also be applied to exhibit design. Results from a pre/post renovation evaluation of the Mead Diorama Hall at the Denver Museum of Natural History were interpreted in terms of the four features of VR and HF that enhance learning. The reinstalled Hall displays, with added orientation information, improved graphics and labels, interactive displays, rest areas, and greater overall integrity of design, were shown to enhance Mead Hall's learning potential. This paper will define the four learning...