NEW FORUMS FOR GEOSCIENCES OUTREACH. MOVING 3D MODELS INTO EXTENDED REALITY

The recent rapid and unexpected pivot to distance and digitally-based learning living has provided many challenges, but also many opportunities to explore alternatives to physical interactions with specimens in a socially-distancing world. Extended reality technologies, which include virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality, provide new pathways to utilize digital, three-dimensional (3D) models when physical collections are not accessible. We explored methods for adapting high-resolution, digital models created using 3D surface scanning for use in the contexts of generating a university-level laboratory exercise on morphology-based phylogeny reconstruction and replacing an interactive museum kiosk on fossil taphonomy with extended reality options.

The adapted digital models could be embedded in web-accessible environments, such as a learning management systems and browser- based visualization programs. They are also viewable in augmented reality enabled applications on mobile devices, providing multiple different methods for interacting with students and members of the public. While web-based models and the emergent nature of augmented reality may pose some challenges in the initial integration of digital 3D models in outreach activities, many models already exist as a byproduct of previous research, visualization, and digitization projects. Robust management of metadata, curation, and preservation of digitized files using best practices developed by libraries, museums, and other cultural preservation organizations will aid in the development of an ecosystem for display of models in new formats. Bringing these files into extended reality platforms provides greater access to museum and educational collections, increasing accessibility and expanding the reach of exhibits and educational activities.