Globally, there is a significant trend toward the integration of mobile apps in educational contexts as these apps offer potential for a deeper level of immersion in knowledge creation and archiving. Mobile Apps offer potential opportunities for flexibility afforded by mobility; therefore, the tool can be used outside of the classroom. In recent years, the technologies for 3D laser scanning, 3D images and augmented reality offer score for the ability to study architectural precedents offsite in sensory enhanced digital modes. In light of this, a project was implemented to develop a mobile app, ‘Experience Kingston’ which is now available on Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
This project was funded through the University’s Research Development Fund, which is managed by the School of Graduate Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship (SGSRE), which aims to support impactful research activities that will contribute to the realization of the UTech, Jamaica Jamaica’s Mission. The goal of this project is to integrate immersive digital technology within the ambiance of conventional architectural history and theory, thus engaging current approaches in the Digital Humanities, by creating an educational Mobile App.
This app showcases the Urban and Architectural Heritage of Downtown Kingston, Jamaica and phases of modernization. Additionally, the App project was designed to be a part of the classwork of the CSA 4th year students, Class of 2022, and spanned two assessments. Students worked with the lecturers to source visual and textual material, to edit and upload to the dashboard for the app.
The Research and Compilation Team was led by Dr. Elizabeth Pigou-Dennis, Vice Dean, Faculty of the Built Environment working with the 4th Year Students, AS4, Class of 2022. The collaborating Technical Team was led by Mr. Shaun Ramsay, Lecturer, UTech, Jamaica Sapna Lab, SCIT.
A survey was conducted with students other than those who had worked on creating the app and a summary of the positive results of the survey is as follows:
Ease/clarity of Navigation: 81%
Ease of selecting topics: 86%
Visual appeal of app: 69%
Informative content: 90%
Would recommend app: 88%
Enhanced knowledge of Kingston’s history and potential: 81%
The Lead lecturer, Dr. Dr. Elizabeth Pigou-Dennis gave a presentation on the app to an international audience of the Society of Architectural Historians Affiliate Group on the theme of developing assignments to teach Architectural History and Theory.
The app proved to be a useful learning tool, with 86% of students who worked on the project reporting positive learning experience, regarding understanding Kingston’s history and potential. The content was relevant to reflection on the modernization of Kingston, within the module Modern Ideas and Architecture.
