Digital Specimens: A Pilot Study on the Dissemination of Knowledge via Digitized Zoological Specimens at Government Museum, Karur, Tamil Nadu

Digital Specimens and Knowledge Dissemination

Abstract

This paper presents a preliminary study on the application of close-range photogrammetry for the digital preservation and enhanced knowledge dissemination of select dried specimens of phyla Porifera and Cnidaria from the invertebrate collections from the zoological section at the Government Museum, Karur district, Tamil Nadu. The initiative addresses the challenges associated with the fragility of these specimens and the need for improved visitor engagement and accessibility, in alignment with National Museum digitization goals. Utilizing handheld mobile cameras and open-source software, three-dimensional (3D) digital models of representative specimens of the select phyla were created and were subsequently uploaded to the online 3D model repository Sketchfab. Further, Quick Response (QR) codes linking directly to the online 3D models were strategically placed alongside the physical specimens within the exhibition space. This impact of such QR integrated digitized exhibits on knowledge dissemination were assessed by observing visitor engagement time at the exhibit in comparison to exhibits lacking the digital content. It was found that this method improved visitor engagement wherein the visitors were able to experience virtual manipulation and detailed viewing of the specimen exhibited without risking damage to the physical specimens. The study concludes that photogrammetry offers an economical, non-invasive solution for the comprehensive digitization of artifacts, enhancing the informative value and accessibility of museum exhibits.