Evaluating the perception of virtual reality in historical sites

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) has revolutionized the way we can experience historical sites, providing us with an immersive experience like never before. However, it is crucial to establish evaluation standards to ensure an authentic and engaging experience. This research solves the problem of evaluating perception in virtual reality of historical sites and demonstrates its effectiveness. The hypothesis of the research is clarified by identifying various indicators and factors, such as visual realism, accuracy of historical information, and creating interactive environments for visitors to achieve a realistic perception during their virtual experience of historical sites. The research aims to highlight the effectiveness of virtual reality in historical sites, and its importance in promoting economic tourism, education, documentation, and heritage preservation of buildings with both material and moral values. The historical site (Taq Kisra - Iraq) was chosen as a study area to apply the research indicators and demonstrate the validity of its hypothesis, creating a simulation of the building using 3D programs. After that, (30 samples) of visitors were selected in the applied aspect of the research, and the results of their responses to the virtual experience of the chosen site were counted during their virtual visit to it through a questionnaire that explained the importance of perception indicators for the response to virtual reality, to help us reach results that transport the virtual carpenter to an image closer to reality, achieving immersion and interaction Human. The results confirmed the importance of perception in virtual reality and depend on several indicators and factors. The most important of which are visual realism, sound design, interaction, and accuracy. The visual realism index is one of the most important factors affecting perception. The findings were statistically counted and graphically similar to it, reaching the rate of 87%. This led back to the most significant desired objective: achieving the isolation of perception in virtual reality experiences in historical sites. That aids in transmitting the past with realism and accuracy of information.