Making a Hands-On Display with Augmented Reality Work at a Science Museum

In this paper, we propose an augmented reality (AR) system with a laser projection device as a hands-on display at a science museum. The AR system provides virtual information, which learners can control for a visual explanation about an exhibited item. Learners develop their knowledge and understanding through the display without any modification to the item and/or the existing displayed explanation. We conducted an experiment using the AR system, with child visitors to Gamagori Museum of Earth, Life and the Sea. AR systems should meet the following criteria if they are to be considered effective: i) the display should make learners interested in the exhibited item, ii) learners should be able to easily handle the AR display, and iii) learners should construct their knowledge through using the display. In our experiment, we evaluated the AR display against these criteria. We conclude that the AR display system enables learners to construct their knowledge in reality, and that the system encourages learners´ interest in the exhibited items.