XR marks the spot: augmenting spatial histories of coloniality through immersive technologies

Thesis

This integrated thesis examines how immersive technologies may be operationalised to critically contextualise spatial enactments of colonial histories. Beginning with a literature review of the intersections between immersive technologies (XR) research, spatial studies, decolonial theory and critical historiography, this work encompasses four integrated papers which each focus on a separate aspect of XR in the context of spatial Coloniality. Three of the papers are paired with prototype studies based on sites in Oxford, UK. This thesis employs a research-through-XR approach which utilises conceptual taxonomies, research-through-design, case studies and prototyping. Together, the chapters of this thesis produce the following workflow: positioning a locality in space (The Blue_Tooth Spectrum), conducting a structured spatial analysis (Facets of Space), creating experimental content (Rhodes Not Taken), and connecting virtual interactions with material impact (Breaking the [Virtual] Chains). The Blue_Tooth Spectrum proposes a conceptual taxonomy for positioning localities in digitally suffused, ‘hybrid’ spaces which moves beyond a semantic and ontological separation of ‘reality’ and ‘virtuality’. Facets of Space develops a conceptual taxonomy which facets spatial (meta)data into nine dimensions. Rhodes Not Taken examines how spatial histories may be re-narrated to make the subtle dimensions of Coloniality accessible to lay audiences. Breaking the (Virtual) Chains examines the interplay of gamification, awareness, empathy, and monetisation in XR applications to better understand this technology’s potential and limitations for social justice activism. The thesis’ Discussion brings together these chapters’ contributions to probe the liminal spaces where academia and activism form a productive tension. Exploring the notion of critical vandalisms, this work offers a meta-reflection on the intersections of decolonial theory, spatial justice, and personal positioning. Aimed at HCI researchers, XR researchers and practitioners, historians, and decolonial activists, this thesis advocates for XR as an experiential medium of translation which can facilitate nuanced engagements with the subtle dimensions of Coloniality embedded in our shared environments.

Authors: Mackenthun, JL

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-2agkgbbzd
• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: heritage; metadata; British empire; XR; case studies; data taxonomy; Haida Gwaii; prototyping; Cecil Rhodes; extended reality; museum studies; research-through-design; spatial coloniality; mapping; RV continuum; decolonial theory; immersive technologies; spatial studies; activism; Oxford; colonial history; spatial analysis; AR; Indian Institute; augmented reality; academic activism; Pitt Rivers Museum
• Subjects: Digital humanities; Spatial justice; Activism; Museum studies; Local history; Public spaces; Social justice; Spatial history; British Imperial History; Shared virtual environments; Software prototyping; Postcolonial criticism; Social sciences and history