Development and evaluation of the flower identification database for mobile with a geo-tagged picture map
Hitoshi Miyata, Mitsuo Ishigami, Machiko Sannomiya · International Journal of Mobile Learning and Organisation · 2011
We developed a system for creating geo-tagged observational picture maps that makes use of a GPS logger that is equipped with a database of flowers that can be used for the identification of these flowers. This database includes 961 color photographs of 220 varieties of flowers that are commonly found in Japan. The system has the following functionalities: the ability to search and identify flowers by season, color, and name; the ability to view high-resolution video clips showing scenes that are difficult to observe, such as the dispersal of seeds; detailed explanations on the method of identifying similar flowers that are hard to distinguish; and the ability to assist in the creation of an observational picture map by automatically showing photographs together with observational comments on a Google Maps based on GPS signal data. The system was trialed with 208 sophomore university students as part of a fieldwork involving the observation of wild flowers. As a result of the trial, the effectiveness of the system was validated in the following four domains: (1) interest, motivation, and attitude; (2) thinking and decision making; (3) technique and expression; and (4) knowledge and understanding.