Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
This study presents the design and development of an augmented reality (AR)-supported illustrated e-book aimed at introducing early childhood audiences to the cultural heritage of Çatalhöyük. Although AR has been applied in various domains, limited work has explored co-designed, fully digital e-books for cultural storytelling, leaving gaps in understanding how young children encounter heritage through interactive media. Adopting a co-design approach, the project engaged children (aged 3.5–4.5 years old), their parents, and cultural stakeholders to make feedback-driven refinements in narrative, visual, and AR elements. Data were collected through observation, think-aloud protocols, interviews with children and parents, and feedback from cultural professionals, allowing systematic analysis of usability and engagement. Findings highlight the importance of accessible interfaces, audio-visual cues, and emotionally resonant characters in supporting meaningful interaction. Results further show that children’s engagement is best understood as a relative experience, shaped by the interplay of technology, context, and social interaction rather than any single UX dimension. The study demonstrates how co-design and narrative immersion can enrich children’s exploration of cultural heritage and foster shared reading experiences.
