Learning Hawaiian Open Ocean Navigation Methods with Kilo Hōkū VR

Abstract

Kilo Hōkū VR (t: "to observe and study the stars") is a virtual reality simulation of the Hōkūleʻa, a Polynesian double-hulled sailing canoe, and a simulation of the practice of Modern Hawaiian wayfinding, or non-instrument open ocean navigation. It was developed to assist in the cultural preservation of the celestial navigation portion of Modern Hawaiian wayfinding, and to expand the availability of learning opportunities. We here introduce new features added to the simulation for teacher and student interaction and learning. We performed a user study and observed the potential viability of using Kilo Hōkū VR with students who are currently learning wayfinding in a classroom setting.