Hello all,

I am wondering if there is anyone on the list that is researching context aware or context sensitive tour systems? or Do any of you have such a system in place? In either case would you be willing to share the story of your project. 

For those of you who are wondering "what is he writing about?" These systems combine wireless internet technology, handheld computers and Global Positioning Systems to deliver context (location) specific information to the user. Imagine walking into a gallery with a handheld computer or PDA. When you stop in front of an object the PDA has already accessed information on that object. It could offer a menu of alternatives available for immediate delivery including audio and video, in addition to text and still images. 

There was a recent New York Times article about a system being tested at Cornell. This system was used to give incoming freshmen an orientation to the campus. There is another research project at Cornell that uses the technology in the museum setting.

Here is Cornell's press on the project
HTTP://www.news.cornell.edu/Chronicle/02/5.16.02/PDA_tours.html

I am curious who else is using it or looking into such a system. What are the challenges and the advantages of such a tour system. Are visitors or will  visitors use them?

Thanks for your feedback,

Treden Wagoner



Treden Wagoner
Coordinator of Education Technology Programs
The Minneapolis Institute of Arts
2400 Third Avenue South
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55404
612-870-3189
Toll free 888-642-2787 extension 3189
Fax 612-870-3004
Email [log in to unmask]
http://www.artsMIA.org
http://www.ArtsConnectEd.org

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