VR and AR technologies in the modern cultural space and their role in environmental education

Abstract

Nowadays, in the era of digitalization, it is becoming more and more important to use digital content wisely. This also applies to the cultural heritage of any country. In the context of globalization, reasonable measures should be taken to use content to ensure the sustainability of national identity. In recent decades, new technologies have been developed and used for digital preservation in the form of three-dimensional computer models of various sizes, ranging from very small museum exhibits to the largest cathedrals and castles. The advantages of computer models are undeniable. Through prototyping and reverse engineering, important exhibits are created that make it possible not only to see, but also to hold in one place, thereby allowing a better understanding of historical events and their significance. Three-dimensional visualization provides virtual tours to different places and at different times. Unfortunately, the development of such content is very expensive. Moreover, the technologies for a successful level of immersion are under development. This applies to the criteria for content quality and accessibility and interaction functionality. It is also important to understand what elements to virtualize and how this relates to ensuring cultural identity. Rapidly developing ICT technologies have become a tool for accelerating the creation of information societies around the world. Thanks to this, many traditional services have found a new digital space for functioning and, thus, have reached a global dimension. One example is virtual museums, which provide access to their resources for every interested person who has an Internet connection.