Authentic Experiences Research Articles

Do experience and authentic happiness on halal luxury fashion influence behavioral intention?

Purpose This study aims to determine the influence of experiential value, authentic happiness and experiential satisfaction on the behavioral intention of luxury fashion. Design/methodology/approach Two hundred online questionnaires were collected from customers who rented or bought wedding dresses between 2015 and 2020, with at least one rental or purchase coming from an Indonesian bridal wedding brand that promotes the idea of marriage under Islamic law. The quantitative methodology used in this study was examined using the Structural Equation Model analysis method with the AMOS 22 software. Findings The results showed that all hypotheses were accepted with significant positive influences, including experiential value in halal fashion on authentic happiness, experiential satisfaction and luxury fashion behavioral intention, authentic happiness in luxury fashion behavioral intention and experiential satisfaction, as well as experiential satisfaction in the behavioral intention of luxury fashion. Research limitations/implications The data were collected from respondents who have rented and/or purchased wedding dresses. However, the number of respondents who only rent or who only buy was not identified. Practical implications The value of experience in halal fashion needs to be increased. Based on the results of this study, it is hoped that marketers can create effective marketing policies and strategies by paying attention to the value of the consumer’s halal fashion experience because it will affect their authentic happiness, experience satisfaction and luxury fashion behavior intention. Originality/value This study has unique originality in measuring the variable of luxury fashion behavioral intention, which was adjusted to the object of research, namely luxury fashion.

EDI&S SO07 Future of Low-Cost Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Simulation (LaChSi) Model: Integration of Segmentation-Based Artificial Intelligence Models for Realism Enhancement in Simulation-Based Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Training in Lower-Middle-Income Countries

Abstract Background To introduce an approach of employing segmentation-based Artificial Intelligence (AI) models to meticulously isolate the silicon-based Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Simulation Model (LaChSi) model within the laparoscopic trainer box, thereby enhancing realism. To assess the effectiveness of the AI Model to track camera angles to seamlessly replace the background with a virtual environment reminiscent of authentic intra-operative intra-abdominal visuals. Method The proposed methodology integrates a sophisticated segmentation model that identifies and accurately delineates the LaChSi Model within the laparoscopic Trainer box. Simultaneously, the model exhibits the capability to segregate the background, while closely monitoring camera angles for real-time adjustment. Importantly, the model is trained to perform precise segmentation of surgical tools, ensuring a comprehensive and realistic representation of the laparoscopic environment. Results Implementation of the proposed method is thought to demonstrate a notable improvement in trainees’ adaptation to surgical scenarios. The visual transition experienced by trainees moving from simulation-based surgeries to actual surgical environments will significantly reduce disparities increasing the effectiveness of the Laparoscopic simulation training. This will further avoid the need to use sensors and wires on the LaChSi model to simulate the surgical settings. Conclusion As the visual representation in simulations often deviates substantially from the intricate nuances of actual surgical procedures. This study introduces an innovative AI-based model that will contribute to the augmentation of surgical realism within simulation-based training. By effectively integrating segmentation techniques, our approach will minimise visual discontinuities, providing trainees with a more authentic and immersive experience, and ultimately fostering a smoother transition to acute surgical settings.

From words to wealth: Decoding the language markers and compositions of shop names in Banda Aceh

This qualitative study examines the names of 100 local and independent businesses to study the linguistic diversity and features of the linguistic landscape in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. The names here refer to those written in specific languages used in Aceh (Indonesian, Acehnese, English, Arabic, and other indigenous languages spoken in the province). The data was collected from five main roads, capturing the shop names for analysis. The results show that English is the dominant language choice, composing a majority of 45% of signage, showing the influence of globalization and the desire for international appeal. While English appears to convey prestige, some businesses blend it with Indonesian or Acehnese, connecting with local culture and engaging diverse audiences. This deliberate language choice reflects a commitment to cultural preservation and authentic customer experiences. Meanwhile, diverse linguistic combinations, emphasizing global influences, cultural preservation, and strategic branding, were also revealed. The most prevalent linguistic structure of signs is product+X (57%), which highlights product types, followed by place+X (14%) which emphasizes regional or cultural identity. In addition, a name/person’s name+X establishes a personalized connection (6%). Finally, in language markers, shop names reveal globalization’s prevalence and demonstrate efforts to convey a global image. The revitalization marker reflects the commitment to the Acehnese language and cultural pride. Identity markers, which include place, name, abbreviation, product, plant name, and brand, establish trust, familiarity, and resonance, creating a dynamic linguistic and cultural landscape where businesses steer global influences and local heritage to connect authentically with customers. To conclude, shop names in Banda Aceh illustrate a vibrant linguistic and cultural environment where businesses use global influences and local heritage to create meaningful bonds with customers.

Outputs from a model of co-research with older care-experienced people in Sweden to advance eldercare services.

Within the contemporary policy turn towards co-production and co-research in Sweden, older people, practitioners and researchers alike have expressed uncertainty about how to undertake co-research. Moreover, scepticism persists about the merits and contributions of co-research and co-production to research and service development. In this paper, we aim to describe a co-research model developed with older care-experienced lay co-researchers and explore the utility of our model's outcomes to social care research and practice. In a Participatory Action Research project, we established a team of three co-researchers by professional experience and eight lay co-researchers by lived experience who were over age 75. Our team undertook a complete study cycle from inception and funding through to knowledge exchange and dissemination. Our process lasted one year and comprised three phases: the group alone establishing collective knowledge, testing knowledge in peer interviews with acquaintances, exchanging knowledge in events with multi-sector actors. We generated and analysed data concurrently in fortnightly workshops and round-table meetings using procedures inspired by framework analysis to produce themes illustrated by vignettes. We highlight our co-research model's utility to social research, policy and practice under three themes. Expressly, how our approach (1) reaches and engages older people who are isolated at home, (2) generates out-of-the box thinking and innovative solutions for service development and research, (3) recognizes and benefits from older people's authentic experience and knowledge. We critically reflect upon these three themes and the conditions that lead towards or away from the adoption of key co-research principles. Public services and research and development units working in the interests of older people can take inspiration from our co-research model when seeking to meet the challenges brought by new reforms towards closer community involvement. Despite messiness in the process, integrating and embedding principled co-research and co-production can bring clarity and structure to the issues that matter most to older people, and draw organisations closer to the communities they serve.

Research on the Authenticity Experience in the Digital Protection of Cultural Heritage taking the Scenic Spot of the City of Youli as an Example

Research on the Authenticity Experience in the Digital Protection of Cultural Heritage taking the Scenic Spot of the City of Youli as an Example

Optimising Healthcare Education with Design-Based Theory

Introduction In complex, and socially dynamic educational systems, traditional research methodologies often fail to connect with everyday practice, creating a need for “usable knowledge” when solving individual and collective education problems (Design-Based Research Collective, 2003). Traditional methods are effective, but do not necessarily uncover the nature of changes to student thinking during an education experience. With this, Design-Based Research (DBR) is a proposed solution that emerges as a pivotal methodology in educational research, as it aims to integrate theories of learning with practical experiences. Seen as a systematic yet adaptable approach, DBR integrates iterative cycles of analysis, design, and evaluation in collaboration with researchers and practitioners within authentic educational settings, (Harrington, 2012; Wang & Hannafin, 2005). This (poster) presentation will describe how DBR was utilised to create a learning environment to improve learning experiences within healthcare education. An analysis of the problem highlighted that healthcare students experienced high levels of anxiety during high-fidelity simulation when asked to perform and treat simulation manikins (Aiello et al., 2023). In part, the main issues relate to a lack of environmental authenticity, resulting in under-stimulation and performance anxiety resulting in over-stimulation. This relates to the Yerkes Dodson stress performance curve and suggests that too little or too much arousal results in poor performance (Yerkes, 1908). The hypothesis therefore was to design a solution for peak performance by increasing environmental authenticity and managing anxiety. Method The hypothesis is conceptualised as a ‘design solution’ rather than an intervention. To provide an authentic learning experience virtual reality environments were developed, and to aid performance anxiety, the centering technique was used. Centering is a visualisation technique that teaches participants to focus on the here and now, reduce negative thoughts, and lower anxiety. Virtual reality scenarios were provided prior to each simulation and included a ward-based environment (nurse students) and a rescue helicopter (paramedic students). The study involved 35 Master of Nursing Science, Entry to Practice student nurses at the University of Melbourne and 33 Bachelor of Health Science, Paramedicine students at Auckland University of Technology and industry experts within nurse and paramedic education. All data was collected for each cohort iteratively in 2023 and 2024 to evaluate and develop the design. Data collection included using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory as a pre-test baseline to measure general and long-standing anxiety for each participant. Within-test heart rates was recorded on a Polar H10 chest strap to measure an objective physiological response to stress. Post-test participants completed the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory–2R after each simulation to understand subjective anxiety and several focus groups were completed to gain further insight into experiences and perspectives. Discussion and Conclusion This presentation outlines the design characteristics used to support student learning within healthcare education settings. Design-Based Research offers a robust framework to develop and refine educational practices through iterative design and implementation cycles. Early results suggest that both virtual reality and the centering technique impact healthcare learning and the implementation of this approach could lead to long-term resilience and build confidence that maximises potential.

Culinary and Souvenir Center in Pematangsiantar City with Neo-Vernacular Architecture Approach

Tourists often look for authentic culinary experiences and want to bring home typical souvenirs from the places they visit. Pematangsiantar City, North Sumatra, which is a passageway city for tourists who want to visit Lake Toba, has a variety of culinary and souvenir options. The purpose of this research is to design a culinary and souvenir center in Pematangsiantar City with a neo-vernacular architectural approach. The method used in this design is a qualitative method through literature studies, field studies, and comparative studies that produce space requirements and criteria that will be used as the basis for the design. The results of this research will be the basis for designing a building complex with food stands, souvenir stands, eating and drinking areas, and public open spaces. The whole project is expected to improve the local economy, promote sustainable tourism, and strengthen the cultural identity of Pematangsiantar City.

Ethics and Aesthetics in Food Tourism in Belém/PA (Brazil)

Objective: The aim of the study is to reflect on the local gastronomy of the city of Belém, in the Brazilian state of Pará, from its postmodern condition. Theoretical Framework: Belém, capital of the state of Pará, has been, since 2015, the Creative City of Gastronomy. This title granted by UNESCO is due to traditional and local food, which has strong indigenous roots and, at the same time, African and Portuguese influence. Furthermore, the postmodern condition puts emphasis on aesthetics, considering that today everything is reduced to criteria of image, appearance and spectacle. Method: The methodology adopted in the investigation has a qualitative and documentary character, as we seek to deepen knowledge about our scientific object. We also look to debate both theory and empirical data obtained mainly on Tripadvisor. Here we seek to analyze the gastronomic offer of the 50 best restaurants in the city of Belém. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed that tourists seek authentic and typical experiences, but also innovative ones. In terms of discussion, it is assumed that the presentation of the meals to the customer has aesthetic importance. This study needs to be complemented with other research about the preparation of meals by Chefs and cooks. Research Implications: The research contributes to understand food heritage, offering a basis for thinking about the field of food tourism. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature on food tourism. Its relevance and value are evident in understanding and thinking about the importance of food tourism.

Time Efficient & Cost Effective Online teaching tool with iConcepts in Orthodontics for DDS students @ UoM

Background Traditional teaching methods in Orthodontics include plaster models and photos which have been used for decades, however due to the nature of being static still images its difficult for 3-Dimensional (3D) changes in Orthodontics teaching, which has posed immense challenges as the learner is unable to clear concepts on the different planes that affect the final tooth positions not to mention the protracted treatment time ranges from 12 months (simple cases) to 36 months (complex cases). In 2024 with variety of platforms such as videos, 3D animations, interactive changes in face and teeth can be added to teaching tools for Orthodontics. Furthermore, orthodontic movements can pose difficulty in understanding the changes particularly in growing children adding to the 4th dimension. At UQ (Naser-ud-Din, 2015) and internationally (Bridges, 2015) provided experience with creating online teaching modules highlighting its strengths of flexibility, ease of access on demand and global presence. UQ developed SBLi -Scenario Based Learning interactive for Postgraduate Orthodontic students who found it highly engaging, with self-reflective and self-assessment elements useful. (Khoo et al., 2023; Naser-ud-Din, 2016). Generally simulations can be expensive to create (Kröger et al., 2017) and it’s essential to explore cost effective simulation teaching tools with industry partners for authentic learning experience. Aims There is a gap in the dental education sector, particularly with emerging CADCAM (Computer Assisted Design and Computer Assisted Manufacture), which can be used to enhance the learning of core concepts in biomechanics with the aid of 3D simulated online learning. This is reflected particularly for the university students in undergraduate courses who need to feel confident and clinically ready on graduation as Dentists. Thus, greater expectations to be aligned with current technological processes in dentistry. Over the past 5 years, in particular, there has been exponential improvements by the industry providing 3D simulations for treatment planning and patient communication, commonly referred to as the GPS for smile transformations. The aim of this presentation is to highlight the time efficiency and cost effectiveness of the learning tool in sync with contemporary demands in Orthodontics to provide authentic learning platform that prepares the clinician for real patients. Material & Methods Currently the CAD CAM technology provide 3D simulations as open access to general public and doctors portal which can be utilized for teaching core concepts related to biomechanics foundations for student learning, engagement and self-assessment. This project envisages to create a novel forum encompassing education revolution as massive changes in delivery will occur with speed and efficiency internationally with onlinelearning demands. Hence, robust online presence with an interactive textbook such as iConcepts in Orthodontics under the banner of UoM to assist students in Doctor of Dental Surgery at MDS shall pave the way to learning needs for the future. Results The purpose of iConcepts a digital interactive online textbook is to create lifelong learning opportunities in safe space for visual, auditory and kinesthetic with quizzes for interactive learning of concepts without pressure in class learning and feeling judged by peers. Interactive 3D Orthodontic learning directly translates into clinical applications for various orthodontic cases. In the past decade CAD CAM has become clinically relevant particularly with Clear Aligner Therapy adding to higher precision and patient satisfaction. Moreover, it is imperative to have Long Term Retention (LTR) (Irvine, 2020) of learning new tasks. It is essential that students in dentistry are aware of the digital workflows and have clinical preparedness on graduation as it’s the future and certainly here to stay. Both qualitative and quantitative data on student experience shall be collected and analysed to seek out the best practices and processes for instruction of delivery in Orthodontics for DDS cohort in particular and lifelong learning for all ages in general encompassing time efficiency and cost effectiveness. Conclusion The current iConcepts is developed by the author with Apple Education and prototype is being assessed with MSc Data Science cohort at UoM. Furthermore, it is refined by Master of Science Software Engineering students at UoM. Future Recommendations Novel teaching tools shall be marketed to developing universities internationally assisting the dissemination of information a flagship for UoM and revenue generation for department of Education at UoM. In future there will be more and more demand towards interactive concepts clarification (Poblete et al., 2020) and self-assessments hence iConcepts provides that ideal platform. Such technologies will become more prevalent in the future particularly with AI and translated into different languages/ sectors of education. Various faculties that showcase start to finish particularly lengthy/complex outcomes can benefit with timelapse videos and 3D CADCAM for clarity and comprehension for the entire process such as patient journey throughout treatment in Orthodontics.

Transforming STEM Education with Design Thinking

This poster showcases the Technology-Enhanced Learning (TEL) pedagogy designed for a health discipline course at an Australian University. The use of the design thinking process for problem-based learning was implemented to enhance first-year students' creative and digital skills. Collaboration with the industry partners enabled an authentic learning experience. In the post-COVID era, students are more diverse, demanding, discerning, and inclined towards flexible learning to shape their educational experiences. To meet these evolving needs, we adhered to digital accessibility guidelines and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, promoting inclusive education. A student-centric approach to TEL pedagogy is essential for delivering authentic and connected learning experiences (Ní Shé, 2022). In our health course, we designed interactive content using HTML5 Package (H5P) to create engaging learning materials and activities in health course modules. This included multiple-choice questions, interactive text, images, and videos, providing opportunities for students to answer questions, solve problems, and explore content knowledge. This also included formative feedback and opportunities for students to test their understanding. Additionally, design thinking was incorporated to allow students to test their understanding of the health applications, solve ‘wicked’ real-world problems and create human-centric solutions (Brenner et al., 2016). In a three-week course module, Week 1 presented an open-ended real-world problem, designed and developed in collaboration with an industry partner, to help students understand user needs and pain points. Later in the week, students defined the problem by narrowing the scope down and identifying characteristics of the user persona. In Week 2, students ideated multiple responses to the defined problem, utilising problem-solving skills and creativity (Jia, Jalaludin, & Rasul, 2023) to think critically and brainstorm the appropriate solutions using Miro, and then created a low-fidelity prototype to meet the user requirements. In Week 3, students applied their knowledge to test the solution against user needs, constructively aligned with the industry practices. Through the experience of design thinking to solve open-ended, real-world problems, we employed problem-solving learning pedagogy to develop an iterative process of group work (Dam?a & Wittek, 2020). Academics acted as facilitators rather than traditional lecturers, providing support and resources as needed, but allowing students to take the lead. Students took responsibility for their learning by collaborating to explore design thinking and refining their solutions as they gathered information and feedback from various sources, integrating their own disciplinary knowledge as jigsaw pieces (Calkins & Rivnary 2022). For the purpose of authentic assessment, we designed challenging activities that required students to apply design thinking in problem-solving. The assessment tasks focused on both the process and the final solution, as well as the reflective component, including self-assessment and peer assessment. Students increased their effort towards this problem-based assessment because it held more real-life relevance and allowed them to apply their knowledge and skills in practical contexts.

Artificial Intelligent Branching Simulations (AIBS) in Critical Care Neonatal Nursing

Roleplaying, simulations and branching scenarios are among the most authentic, critical and effective educational experiences, though have seen limited adoption due to the expense of creating, staffing, adapting and sustaining them over time (Davies, 2013). The new generation of large language models have made possible new affordances that enable delivering scenario based roleplaying experiences more sustainably. This Pecha Kucha charts the development process, frontier technology and the positive outcomes of an artificial, intelligent branching simulation (AIBS) a in critical care neonatal nursing simulation. Critical care disciplines and nursing have a tradition of using expensive in-person simulations and labor-intensive, high-stress scenarios to prepare students for the workplace (Jefferies, 2020). After such training, nurses undergo rigorous, high pressure in-person evaluations, such as the ANSAT (Ossenberg, Mitchell & Henderson, 2020), which they must pass in order to practice. Foundational reading about nursing practices and reviewing practice manuals is a step towards passing such evaluations, but these more theoretical learning practices don’t constructively align with the situational, authentic skills that are demanded in practice. With few learning experiences that can scaffold towards critical in-person evaluation, students often report high levels of anxiety and that they feel inadequately prepared for in-person evaluation, sometimes failing and leaving their studies and aspirations entirely (Cornine, 2020). Mindful also of an industry wide shortage of critical care nurses, there is a clear need to find bridging solutions that can affordably and effectively prepare trainee nurses for demanding in-person workplace evaluations. This Pecha Kucha charts the development of AIBS that was designed to bridge a learning gap between more theoretical training methods and high stress in-person training evaluations. The increasing popularity of conversational agents powered by large language models on web-based platforms like Character.ai (Sarkar, 2024), suggests that students might find a chatbot an approachable, engaging and an increasingly familiar experience. Initial tests directly prompting ChatGPT and Claude.ai both showed promise, but also raised some issues around reliability which mandated more direct and qualified oversight of teaching staff. A technical solution was required as an intermediary between the students and the LLMs that enabled ‘human-in-the-middle’ (Mollick, 2024) oversight. After an extensive review, the educator created tool ‘Cogniti’ was selected due to it’s ability to provide a seamless, pretrained scenario chat experience, while also enabling student account integration, data governance, supervisor oversight and privacy controls. The prompts used to instruct the Cogniti AI agent were developed using the RTRI prompting framework (Lui 2023, Hardman, 2023). By separating parts of the scenario into sequential chunks, each with a series of ‘expected responses’ it became possible to create and align an improvisational prompting script that resembled a sequence from a typical hospital procedures manual and that aligned to the prescribed ANSAT placement evaluation framework (Ossenberg, Mitchell & Henderson, 2020). Allocating specific roles to the AI agent and to the trainee nurse within a framework of expected responses enabled the narrative to resemble an authentic interaction, but within a safe environment. Prompting the AI agent to progress the narrative under specific conditions and to provide structured feedback to students, enabled a cohesive educational experience that was able to address specific gaps in student knowledge of neonatal practice and procedure. Staff and student feedback demonstrated positive results in terms of engagement, satisfaction, academic performance and student well-being.

(Re)defining Mobile Learning in the Post COVID-19 and GenAI Era

Mobile learning, thrust into the spotlight during the COVID-19 pandemic, has a rich 40-year history with a robust body of research predating 2020. This concise paper revisits mobile learning in light of the accelerated technological advancements and shifting educational practices post-pandemic. By examining the evolution of mobile learning frameworks and integrating recent advancements in AI and wearable technologies, we propose a contemporary redefinition that emphasises an accessible mobile ecology. We further explore the theoretical foundations and emerging scenarios in mobile learning, focusing on authentic learning experiences with current trends.

Guest experience and unique accommodation features in Göreme, Cappadocia: An Airbnb review analysis

This study investigates the influence of unique accommodation features on guest experiences in the Göreme town of Cappadocia, focusing on Airbnb reviews. By analyzing 5,677 reviews from 122 Airbnb listings, the research identifies key features such as cave dwellings, panoramic views, and hot air balloon experiences, which significantly contribute to guest satisfaction. A mixed-method approach has been used, combining frequency analysis and sentiment analysis, to evaluate how these unique elements shape guests' perceptions and overall satisfaction. The findings highlight the critical role of both aesthetic qualities and service standards, emphasizing the need for hosts to balance unique architectural features with essential hospitality services like cleanliness and maintenance. This research provides insights for Airbnb hosts and destination marketers to enhance the appeal of Cappadocia as a premier destination for immersive, authentic tourism experiences. The study also offers strategic recommendations for improving marketing efforts and destination management by leveraging Cappadocia's cultural and natural heritage to create memorable guest experiences. As a suggestion for future research, it may be useful to extend the findings of this study to a wider geographical area and examine different tourist profiles.

Revealing the pattern of causality between tourist experience and the perception of sacredness at shamanic heritage destinations in Northeast China

For religious heritage tourism, the key to a destination’s reputation lies in enabling visitors to fully experience the sacredness or a unique spiritual experience offered by the site. The authenticity of the tourism experience and perception is the most significant factor influencing visitors’ perception of the sacredness of religious or holy sites. However, there is currently a lack of sufficient references and evidence to explore the relationship between tourists’ authentic experiences and their perception of sacredness in religious heritage tourism. The aim of this study is to elucidate the causal relationship between the characteristics or attributes of tourists’ authentic experiences and their perception of the sacredness of the destination. Furthermore, it seeks to explore resource development and site creation strategies for religious tourism destinations to continuously enhance the sense of sacredness of these places. The Shamanic cultural traditions in the traditional settlements of Northeast China provide a subtly different context for this study. However, the topics discussed have broad applicability in constructing the network of relationships between the characteristics of tourists’ experiences and their perception of sacredness in religious heritage tourism. This study applied the causal decision analysis model based on data mining (RSA-DEMATEL) and established a causal network diagram between core attributes based on clarifying the behavioral rule knowledge (i.e., If…Then… rules) between tourists’ travel experience (conditional attributes) and the perception of place sacredness (decision-making attributes). The study finds that enhancing tourists’ perception of the sacredness of a destination is related to authentic tourism experiences, the ability to observe believers and participate in the religious activities of local residents, landscapes that reflect local traditions and historical culture, as well as the number of tourists and the extent of commercial activities. This research offers further insights into the sustainable development of religious tourism, providing a critical conceptual framework and data analysis model for subsequent related studies, contributing significantly to both theory and practice.

Virtual reality as a sustainable alternative for authentic and satisfying tourism experiences

ABSTRACT Tourism significantly contributes to climate change while simultaneously providing essential leisure and relaxation opportunities. This study examines the potential of virtual reality (VR) as a sustainable alternative to physical tourism by examining its ability to authentically and satisfactorily replicate traditional tourism experiences. Anchored in technological mediation theory, this study explores whether VR’s embodiment features – ownership, location, and agency – can foster tourism authenticity and tourist satisfaction. To do so, this study employs a quasi-experimental design with 937 cases. The findings indicate that VR tourism can deliver authenticity and satisfaction levels comparable to physical visits, particularly among tourists with prior VR exposure. These results advance sustainable tourism practices by positioning VR as a viable alternative to physical travel, thereby contributing to environmental conservation efforts. These results also underscore the critical role of technology embodiment in crafting immersive and meaningful tourism experiences. Therefore, the data-driven insights provided herein can be used to guide the development of innovative, technology-driven tourism models that meet the growing demand for authentic and sustainable travel experiences.

Exploring Interpersonal Dynamics in Wellness Tourism: A Reexamination of Intentions Through a Case Study of Generation X Citizens in Thailand

Objective: This research primarily aims to investigate the factors influencing wellness tourism experiences for Generation X in Thailand, focusing on revisit intentions and overall satisfaction. Specific objectives include identifying key factors affecting relationships with healthcare providers and fellow tourists, analyzing the impact of these relationships, and exploring the correlation between authenticity, organizational identification, and revisit intentions. Theoretical Framework: Wellness and healthcare tourism investigate the factors influencing revisit intentions. Unlike general wellness, wellness tourism emphasizes holistic health through activities that integrate physical, mental, and social well-being. It encompasses experiences from hedonic beauty spas to eudaimonic spiritual retreats. Wellness hotels cater to these demands, providing tailored services for overall well-being. In contrast, healthcare tourism promotes emotional health and quality of life through organized trips, while medical tourism focuses primarily on reactive treatments. Revisit intentions are shaped by memorable, authentic experiences, with emotions, customer satisfaction, and electronic word of mouth (eWOM) playing critical roles. Authenticity existential and constructive significantly affects satisfaction, loyalty, and revisit intentions. This study emphasizes delivering exceptional wellness experiences that foster personal growth and cultivate long-term loyalty. Method: This research investigates the factors influencing wellness tourism experiences among Generation X individuals in Thailand, emphasizing revisit intentions and overall satisfaction. Using a cross-sectional quantitative design, data were collected to establish causal relationships among key variables: Wellness Tourism Experience (WTE), Existential Authenticity (EA), Constructive Authenticity (CA), Corporate Identification (CoIn), and Rememberability (RemA). Conducted between January 11 and December 30, 2023, the survey targeted Generation X participants who engaged in wellness tourism, selected from visitor records and databases. The sample size, estimated using Krejcie and Morgan's (1970) guidelines, aimed for 400 participants to ensure representativeness and minimize bias. The questionnaire demonstrated reliability with a Cronbach’s Alpha of 0.92. Data were analyzed using ADANCO software for Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to assess construct reliability, convergent validity, and model fit. Results: This study examines the intricate dynamics of relationships within wellness tourism among Generation X citizens in Thailand, emphasizing their influence on revisit intentions and overall satisfaction. Conducted over 79 days with 406 participants, the research revealed a diverse demographic: 30.8% male, 69.2% female, with 50.9% holding bachelor’s degrees and 48.3% earning between 30,001 and 50,000 baht. Statistical validation demonstrated robust constructs characterized by high reliability and strong convergent validity. Descriptive analyses indicated positive perceptions of key dimensions, particularly existential and constructive authenticity, corporate identification, rememberability, and revisit intentions (mean values: 4.44 to 4.97). Although significant, limitations regarding generalizability to other age groups are acknowledged. Overall, the findings provide critical insights for Thai wellness tourism businesses, highlighting the need to align marketing strategies and services with Generation X preferences to enhance satisfaction and loyalty. This research contributes valuable perspectives for theoretical advancement and practical application within the tourism and hospitality sectors. Research Implications: This study investigates the relationships and revisit intentions in wellness tourism experiences among Generation X in Thailand using a quantitative cross-sectional design. Key findings reveal a strong correlation between Wellness Tourism Experience (WTE) and Revisit Intention (RI), emphasizing the importance of authenticity in enhancing customer loyalty and satisfaction. Originality/Value: This study analyzes interpersonal dynamics influencing revisit intentions among Generation X tourists in Thailand's wellness tourism sector. It examines how relationships, including cultural differences with healthcare providers, affect return likelihood. Key findings emphasize the importance of authenticity, corporate identification, and rememberability in enhancing customer loyalty and satisfaction.

Authenticity in Interactive Experiences

Building on our previous work presented at the Eurographics GCH conference, this paper further explores the characteristics of an “authentic experience”, developing a framework that can be applied to the development of XR and hybrid applications in the field of cultural heritage. While recognising the broader concept of authenticity, we have not focused on an in-depth analysis of it. Instead, we focus specifically on “authentic experiences”. Here, we have extended the definition of authenticity beyond realism or sense of presence, proposing instead a multi-dimensional approach to engaging users cognitively, emotionally, and sensorially (the “Self” dimension) and, at the same time, including two otherfundamental dimensions (the “Others” and the “World”) intrinsically connected to the “Self”. We have then further detailed these three dimensions, which are the pillars of the perception of authenticity, identifying their “components” and “elements”. Finally, we transformed the elements into “actionable” design indications, setting the ground to further develop specific design (UI and UX) strategies for digital heritage and serious game applications.

Exploring the Tourist Perceptions of Destination Components at the Sigiriya World Heritage Site: A Tripadvisor-Based Study

ABSTRACT This study explores tourists’ perceptions of the Sigiriya UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. The study has used TripAdvisor reviews and analysed using content analysis employing the 5’A’s framework for destinations (Attractions, Accessibility, Amenities, Activities, Accommodation). The results indicate that tourists perceive the attraction based on scenery, historical significance, features, cost, and crowd levels. Their perception highlighted the availability of accommodation, facilities and amenities. The activities including rock climbing, garden visits, photography, and artefact observation along with the accessibility considerations, such as fitness requirements, were also highlighted in their perceptions. The study revealed a key finding that ‘authentic experience’ is a crucial component of heritage tourism. Accordingly, this study proposes expanding 5’A’s framework incorporating ‘authentic experiences’ to understand tourists’ perceptions and their recommendation behaviour. Practical implications include preserving the site’s natural and historical value, improving accessibility and amenities, and offering authentic experiences in heritage destinations to enhance tourists’ perceptions

A Blended Learning Approach to Teaching Medication Use and Perspectives on Spiritualty in Pharmacy Practice

ObjectiveTo assess students’ performance and perspective on the role of spirituality in pharmacy practice utilizing a blended learning approach. MethodsStudents viewed online pre-class videos on general spirituality and five major religions in the United States. Next, students attended an interactive lecture followed by a simulated counseling session. Lastly, students completed an anonymous, 38-question, electronic perspective survey. The items were grouped into scales results and compared using paired-sample t-tests. Effects sizes were measured by Cohen’s d. Additionally, students could opt to complete a reflection assignment on this activity as part of a concurrent course. A content analysis qualitative approach was utilized to assess these reflections. ResultsAll students (n=125) completed the counseling session, and 113 (90.4%) completed the survey. The mean score on the counseling session rubric was 94.8%, demonstrating students’ skills in recognizing spiritual concerns utilizing simulated patients.All perspective scale scores indicated a statistically significant change from pre to post, with the greatest change demonstrated in empathic perspective-taking (medium effect), followed by anxiety and lack of multicultural self-efficacy, religious/spiritual openness, and desire to learn (small effects). Students agreed that the instruction helped prepare them as a pharmacist (mean=5.41) and it was valuable hearing from people with authentic experiences (mean=5.40). Major learning themes included individualizing care, respect for beliefs, learning about diverse backgrounds, and prohibited medications. ConclusionsStudents performed well utilizing a blended learning approach on counseling patients regarding medication-related spiritual needs. In addition, the students perceived an increase in empathy while addressing spiritual considerations in patient care.

Dataset of the relationship between authentic virtual reality experiences and tourists’ visiting intentions of a tourism destination

Dataset of the relationship between authentic virtual reality experiences and tourists’ visiting intentions of a tourism destination