Introduction to Shared AR/VR Environments for Collaborative Exploration

This resource introduces shared augmented and virtual reality environments for collaborative exploration of cultural heritage within the ARTEMIS project. It explains the differences between AR and VR, common XR devices, and interaction methods. It presents the concept of Reactive Heritage Digital Twins (RHDTs), which are dynamic, semantically enriched models that integrate real-time data, expert annotations, and simulations to support heritage monitoring and decision-making.

A central focus is the VAX Annotator XR tool, which enables multi-user collaboration, rich annotation, and interaction with 3D heritage models. The platform also integrates simulation capabilities, including crowd movement modelling, and supports persistent, data-driven digital twin environments for cultural heritage research and preservation.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this module, learners will be able to:

• explain the fundamental concepts of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
• describe how immersive technologies can support the use of Reactive Heritage Digital Twins (RHDTs) for information visualization,annotation and collaborative interaction within virtual environments.
• identify and apply different interaction methods in a shared XR environment