Keywords
Heritage Visualization
Social Science Approach
Emotional Engagement
Virtual Heritage
How to Cite
Abstract
Archaeology offers insights into past societies through the study of material remains, but understanding how contemporary audiences perceive and emotionally engage with heritage sites requires an interdisciplinary approach. This study adopts a social science perspective to examine the impact of digital representations of heritage sites in Kerala on memory retention and emotional connection. A structured digital questionnaire was designed to capture participant responses across multiple dimensions, including demographic information, prior engagement with heritage sites, exposure to digital media, memory retention, emotional response, and overall perception of digitally mediated experiences. The survey targeted a diverse sample, encompassing a variety of age groups, genders, professions, and residents from all districts of Kerala. Participants were exposed to virtual reconstructions, 3D models, and multimedia presentations of archaeological sites, and their responses were analysed to identify patterns in recall of historical and architectural details, cognitive understanding, and emotional engagement. The findings indicate that immersive digital experiences enhance memory retention, facilitate comprehension of archaeological information, and foster stronger emotional and cultural connections to heritage sites.This research illustrates the potential of combining archaeological knowledge with social science methodologies to evaluate human engagement with heritage in a systematic way. By providing insights into how digital tools can complement physical site visits, the study offers guidance for educators, heritage managers, and digital developers in designing impactful experiences that promote learning, emotional resonance, and appreciation of Kerala’s rich archaeological heritage.
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