The project aimed to revolutionize online teaching through VR technology, compile state-of-the-art knowledge into a "folkorpedia," train learners from diverse backgrounds, and provide self-paced learning via an open access platform. VR recreated lost historic environments, reproduced eras for education with historical narration, and stimulated adult learners' innovation capacity. It enhanced design creativity with 3D patterns from EU folklore costumes. The VR performance of traditional dances offered an immersive learning experience. Targeting various audiences, it visualized ethnographic and folklore issues, integrating social and natural environments, with dancers in traditional attire. This inclusive project preserved cultural heritage while embracing digital advancements for engaging education.
Information about tradition, folklore costumes, and dancing was scattered across the internet or found only in old books. Concurrently, research and scientific thinking focused on developing experiential and play pedagogy to support and promote learning. The Dress up, Dance and Dive into Culture (4DCulture) project introduced an online portal for education, information, and entertainment as a means of experiential learning. It was aimed at fashion designers, textile engineers, professional dancers, students, scholars of Europe’s recent history, and enthusiasts. The project built a virtual portal that realistically visualized ethnographic and folklore issues, specifically traditional costumes, types of dances, and dance movements from the EU geographical area. Its most innovative aspect was the virtual reality performance of traditional dances, digitally represented and placed within the digital depiction of the selected region, providing a holistic approach. This process was integrated into its social and natural environment, with dancers wearing traditional costumes.