Experiential Approach to a Neolithic Lakeside Settlement Using Extended Reality (XR) Technologies

The present paper discusses extended reality (XR) applications specifically designed to enhance experiential location-based learning in outdoor spaces, which are utilized in the context of an environmental education program of the Education Center for the Environment and Sustainability (E.S.E.C.) of Kastoria and were designed with the aim of enhancing the experiential experiences of the students in the neolithic lakeside settlement in Dispilio, Kastoria. With the use of augmented, mixed and virtual reality technologies, an attempt is made to enrich the knowledge and experiences of the students during their visit to the representation of the Neolithic settlement (open-air museum) and their active participation in the learning process. Students take on roles such as that of an archaeologist, a detective, and an explorer. By utilizing mobile devices and leveraging GPS technology, students search for and identify virtual findings at the excavation site, travel through time, and investigate the resolution of a mystery (crime) that occurred during the Neolithic period, exploring and navigating the space of the neolithic representation interacting with real and virtual objects, while through special VR glasses they discover the lifestyle of neolithic man. The paper presents the application design criteria, thematic focus, learning objectives, and basic functions. It also aims to provide ideas and guidance to educators of various specialties who wish to create applications that transform educational visits to open archaeological sites and museums into exciting extended reality experiences. In addition, the paper presents findings from quantitative research that evaluates the learning experience through a questionnaire, adapted for XR applications, as well as the views - attitudes of accompanying teachers. The results of the survey show that extended reality-enhanced (XR) educational activity enhanced students' interest and engagement and facilitated a collaborative learning environment.