Transitioning to Teaching with Technology
Jeff AronowitzAssistant Manager of Public and Educational Programs Jamestown Rediscovery
Objectives
Future proofing Interpretive value Brief overview of interactions on tours Brief overview of interactions in Ed Shed Lessons Learned
Future proofing
Determining which technologies are mature enough to invest in for you institutions strategic goals
Examples FFF vs. SLA 3D Printers Google Cardboard vs. Oculus, Microsoft, etc. Virtual/3D modeling software vs. BYOD vs. provided device Specified app development vs. generic content distribution
tools
Worth it?
3D printing
Pros: Established technology with over 30 years of development Provides ability to fabricate objects that are otherwise
uncreatable Provides cost efficient means of rapid prototyping
Cons: Price Learning Curve Maintenance
3D Scanner
Pros: Provides ability to capture 3d model of some real world
objects Captures detail such as geometry, color, size etc. Model can be 3D printed or used in virtual environment Cons: Limited use Reliability issues Rapid technology development
VR Viewers
Pros: Creates virtual space allowing for immersive visualization Easy to operate Cheap
Cons: Rapidly advancing technology No established format Dizziness/sickness Isolated experience
360 Cameras Pros
Immersive photo and video capture Easy to capture environment for use in AR and VR applications “Wow” factor Rapid pace of support
Cons Low quality resolution Currently complicated to render imagery No universal format Rapidly advancing technology
Creating a Tactile Learning Experience
Touching the PastActive learning strategies result in stronger comprehension of subjects, and haptics provides a mechanism through which students can actively engage in learning a range of ideas and skills, putting control of learning literally into their hands.-Educase Learning Initiative
Interpretive value The extent to which the object relates to programming
objectives and enhances the learning experience
Examples Butchered dog
mandible (jaw) vs. butchered dolphin
“Arrow Boy” point vs. Morrow Mountain Point
Sundial/compass vs. Jack of Plate
Discovering the interpretive value of the object
What story do I want to tell?How will this object enhance that story?How can I reproduce the object?How can I teach my staff to use the object?
The Ed Shed
Why did we do it?NMC Horizon 2015 Report Museum Edition Wiki
Key trends Expanding concept of Museum Visitors Increasing focus on participatory experiences Growth of cross-institution collaboration Pushing boundaries of creativity
Developments BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Makerspaces 3D Scanning Augmented and Virtual Reality
Challenges Developing comprehensive digital strategies Low digital fluency of museum professionals Balancing connected and unconnected lives Measuring impact of new technologies
If you build it…they will come Over 10K visitors from June 22nd-September 6th
National press Multiple mentions on TripAdvisor and visitors surveys Over 500 scans sent to visitors Universal praise from visitors of all ages
Press Makezine.com
Recreating the Past with Archeological 3D Printing 3DPrint.com
Historic Jamestown’s 3D Printing ‘Ed Shed’ Puts the Past at Visitors’ Fingertips Richmond Magazine
Making History Wydaily.com
Jamestown Unearthed: 3-D Printing Technology Brings Artifacts to Life Jamestown Unearthed: Historic Jamestowne Opens Hands-On Archaeology to
Guests The Yorktown Crier
Jamestowne Ed Shed
Many visitors are “kids” at heart
Our effort to market the space as the JR “Kids” Ed Shed was a failure…
and that’s a GOOD thing!
Technology is tough
Technical challenges and training lapses became apparent only through operations
3D printer
Six different printers and three different brands Don’t be an early adopter Spend more Keep it simple
Virtual Viewers
Get Insurance on the phone Cardboard gets dirty…fast People want to walk around. Don’t let them. Put the device in airplane mode
3D Scanner
Keep it charged Determine your demo
objectives Create a space as you
prep the demo Use Apple TV
3D Prints
Identification Key Variety Discovery Boxes vs.
Matching Game
Sorting and Picking
Not productive without dedicated staff Great bridge to the tech Extended engagement opportunities
Out of Context Artifacts
Get rid of the sharp stuff Put it in their hands Visuals needed
Other observations
Keeping pace should be part of your budget
Let staff play Partnership drastically
enhanced the value of the space
Q & A