# Participatory Exhibition-Viewing Using Augmented Reality and Analysis of Visitor Behavior
## 5 Discussion  
This study aimed to explore the behavioral analysis of audience engagement in both active participation and passive viewing, hence employing the two exhibition-viewing-mode experimental-design methods for analysis. Previous research indicated no significant differences in path and duration between the \"game mode\" and the \"free mode\", with gamification serving a guiding role in regular viewing. Our study extended this experimental design method to analyze behavioral differences between exhibition-viewing and messaging modes.  
In the process of benchmarking, we found that, compared to traditional single-AR exhibition methods, our participatory exhibition-viewing system has significant advantages in enhancing audience engagement. Notably, our system not only provides richer interactive elements but also allows audiences to leave their personal marks within the exhibition, which is not achievable with traditional methods.  
Analysis results showed that there were no significant differences in viewing duration or path length, whether in passive or active participation modes. This indicates that without restricting the audience's AR viewing methods and sequences, there are no significant differences in behavior between passive and active participation. However, path analysis revealed that the messaging mode allowed for a much broader range of movement, indicating a higher degree of freedom for the audience during the exhibition experience.  
In summary, our study demonstrates that compared to traditional AR exhibition methods, our participatory exhibition-viewing system significantly enhances audience interaction and provides technical convenience. These findings not only provide new insights into the application of AR technology in the field of exhibitions but also lay a foundation for future in-depth research in this area.  
In terms of research limitations, this study was designed and conducted based on the actual conditions of the exhibition venue and did not explore the use of point cloud technology for AR positioning in larger venues. Some participants used only one mode due to personal viewing habits, interests, or technical challenges in adapting to the app, leading to the exclusion of such samples. Without specifically arranging for participants to use certain types of mobile devices, and aiming to allow more visitors to experience AR content, it was challenging to ensure optimal AR viewing quality for all due to variances in smartphone hardware, operating system versions, and environmental factors like lighting or obscured recognition targets. This might affect the continued use and promotion of the AR guide system, a limitation not addressed in this study. Given the varied formats of exhibitions, our findings offer insights into other exhibitions and studies employing similar methods but cannot be extrapolated to all forms of AR exhibition-viewing experiences.  
Figure 8: Paths taken by one visitor (Blue lines represent the paths of visitors in Exhibition mode, while red lines represent the paths of visitors in Message mode.).