Bringing Culture to Life: A Usability Study of Web-AR Folklore Storytelling

Learning about culture is essential, and expanding the methods of cultural education beyond traditional learning is crucial. Technology offers new opportunities to not only enhance cultural learning but also promote tourism by introducing cultural elements through innovative platforms. This study evaluates the usability of a web-AR app designed to introduce the Bajau Samah culture through folklore storytelling, providing both an educational tool and a tourism promotion method. The app consists of six pages, allowing users to interact with augmented reality (AR) by scanning markers. Users can zoom and rotate 3D models, listen to audio, and read accompanying narratives. A total of 33 participants took part in the usability study, with more than half of them having no prior experience with AR. The System Usability Scale (SUS) score was 83.5%, indicating good usability. While some usability issues were identified and suggestions for improvement were provided, overall, participants enjoyed using the web-AR app and found it effective in educating them about Bajau Samah culture through AR-folklore storytelling.