Evaluation in Virtual Heritage

Evaluation in virtual heritage is concerned with learning about and assessing the extent to which an interactive system offers a satisfactory user experience (UX) and meets user goals and expectations. Evaluation in virtual heritage is an empirical process of research, which reaches for conclusions about the quality of a system by observing, measuring (aspects of), and interpreting the UX. It is inherently a complex activity that requires careful planning and selection of methods. It does not rely on underlying technology; however, adaptations of process and methods must be made to allow for results and feedback in context. Therefore, it must be designed so that it is useful, reliable, valid, and productive. Evaluation methods and processes are of interest to both cultural heritage (CH) professionals and technology designers, who aim to provide systems that address the widest range of potential users. This chapter discusses basic concepts, processes, and empirical evaluation methods in virtual heritage, with examples.