Evaluating Interaction Challenges of Head-Mounted Device-Based Augmented Reality Applications for First-Time Users at Museums and Exhibitions.

Many museums are seeking opportunities to apply head-mounted device (HMD)-based augmented reality (AR) technology to their exhibitions. However, due to the novel interaction method of HMDs, visitors are usually first-time users who find it difficult to gain enjoyment from using HMD-based AR applications directly. Thus, we argue that it is crucial to understand what has prevented visitors from experiencing the convenience of HMD-based AR applications. There are two main contributions to computer science in this paper: first, we introduced an HMD-based AR prototype with three interaction patterns that are made based on a natural science exhibition; Second, we proposed a usability test method to evaluate the HMD-based AR prototype to identify potential interaction problems in the exhibition sector. The results show that the suggested usability test method is effective in identifying interaction challenges and it helps media developers to improve AR experiences for first-time users at exhibitions and museums.