Is a type of overlay AR, that is designed to be immersive. Users scan the floor of an area, and a portal is generated. Users then step forward walking through the portal and are surrounded by 360-degree video, while an audio file of a story or literary work related to indigenous culture is played. This experience is immersive, and powerful, and can make the users feel out of place, but also like they have been transported to a new location.
Some challenges with this app that should be taken into consideration:
There is no background information associated with the audio works, either within the app itself or on the USAY website. So no clear connection can be made to the speaker, the context of the story (at times), or a specific indigenous tribe.
The 'Portals' must be individually downloaded prior to use, they can range in size from 30-265 MB. This may cause issues on some devices in terms of storage or data access.
While this activity is immersive, it would be better if paired with a tool like Google Lens if available for a more immersive experience.
The overlay covers the interior of the room. If the users are focused on the screen there is the possibility of tripping or bumping into an object.
Educational Assessment
While this app offers a good example of how immersive AR can be, and the accompanying images can be reflective and thought-provoking, the lack of identifying cultural connection to a specific tribe's or group's stories, or authors of the posts can make it hard to place within a specific curricular context. The immersive experience also requires a larger open area for safety. While this app would be good for personal exploration, it may not be the best choice for a classroom setting.
The IndigiTRAILS app is a prime example of using AR as a decolonization tool. The app is location-based, and can therefore only be used in ten different areas within Calgary. Users are guided through various maps, and when they reach specific art installations or important historical locations the AR is triggered, and an overlay, along with audio information is provided.
The Trails cover a variety of important topics from art exhibits related to residential schools, elders' stories about different types of birds at the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, trivia related to Treaty 7, language learning through place-based association, 2SLGBTQIA+ learning are only a few examples. This app showcases how mobile AR can be used as a tool of decolonization in many creative ways, and help users engage with indigenous cultures through place-based learning.
Educational Assessment
This AR app could be an invaluable educational tool for individuals living in the Calgary area. Though its features are not available outside any of the location-based zones. As one of the trials is related to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, this app would be appropriate for an older audience.
IndigiPRINTS is a type of projection-based AR designed to graphic, animations, interactive, and audio elements to existing publications when scanned with the app. High-resolution copies of the trigger images are available on the USAY website.
Some challenges to consider:
Many of the trigger images do not activate within the app when scanned on a screen. It is unclear whether this is due to the format of the image, or if the app is experiencing errors.
Content must be downloaded each time the app is launched, this can be time-consuming.
Some images appear to trigger the incorrect projection.
IndigiMAP generates a map overlay of Turtle Island, with various interactive elements that allow you to explore and gain an overview of different cultural components of different indigenous groups in North America.
Some Challenges to Consider:
A large area of space, preferably around a table is recommended for this AR experience, as the map of Turtle Island (North America) is quite big.
Interactive elements may be difficult the manipulate for students who struggle with fine motor skills.
Not all of the links, like video some video examples worked. This may be due to an error with the app, or a dead link.
Educational Assessement:
This AR app due to its interactive nature offers an almost game-like play and therefore increases engagement. The resources selected to represent each group have been selected by indigenous community members and therefore show a respectful and well-designed overview of each culture. The game-like interaction and cartoon nature of the animations make this a good application for younger students.