Introduction

Introduction

There has been an increase interest in the potential and social impact of new technologies. Today people, especially young children are relying very much on sophisticated technological equipment. Therefore the use of digital and interactive applications are changing the way people think, inform themselves and learn. These technological means include computer generated graphics (CGI) through which the ability to create anything one can imagine has no boundaries. Nowadays 3D digital work is synonymous with the promotion of products and services. Places and objects can not only be seen from any desired point of view but also walk through them. Complicated scenarios can be made accessible as each component can be split separately and therefore facilitate knowledge for the user.  

The opportunity to delve into this particular area is crucial since interactivity and game development seems to be of great potential for today’s and future generation. The aim of this dissertation is to proof that such technology is not available only as a mere entertainment but also as a tool for greater use. It can definitely serve for new learning methods, not only associated with school learning but also in every stratum of society. History is a case in point where ancient civilizations are brought to life in every aspect through CGI.   

The love for the sea, the interest in the many beautiful diving sites that exist around the Maltese Islands amalgamated with the passion for 3D digital work were the motivations behind this dissertation. It is envisaged that this project will be a fair contribution to the sub-aqua tourism industry. This study aims to investigate the various aspects of virtual environments through three vital scenarios being virtual reconstructions, games and simulations. Each one of these is explored, what benefits they offer, and how they are being used to fulfil people’s needs particularly the educational sector. This research is enriched with the evaluation of interviews with people involved in the diving sector. A questionnaire was sent to all sub-aqua clubs in the Maltese Islands in order to establish whether such 3D interactive virtual site can be of help to their clients. The results show not only considerable interest in this project, but also other needs for the sub-aqua industry to flourish. The questionnaire was formulated together with Dr. Alan Deidun from the University of Malta.

Although virtual reconstructions have been utilized in every aspect of society including marine activities, in Malta this was lacking. Mr. Emi Farrugia, a diver himself and producer of a local program entitled “X’Qala l-Bahar” strongly suggested that the implementation of an interactive (almost game like) 3D virtual dive can be of great help for divers especially for new and prospective students who have the urge for diving. This is because the element of gaming will certainly arouse more curiosity amongst young children because the user is free manoeuvre with ease within the limits of the game.

However the ultimate result of this project is to inform divers to actually have a clear representation of what they will find when visiting the real site. Through the use of virtual environments the user can actually go through the underwater diving site as if he is actually in it. The user has the possibility to move to any particular location (within the dive site) and explore for himself every detail of the site.