Tjaša Šavorič Successfully Completed Her Research Visit

Tjaša Šavorič, ASEF Junior Fellow generation 2021 from Slovenia, has successfully concluded her research visit at Deakin University’s School of Engineering in Geelong, Australia under the guidance of Dr. Kaja Antlej.

During her study visit, Tjaša acquired a profound understanding of leveraging digital technologies in diverse cultural contexts. In the university’s VR lab, she participated in a research study measuring users’ emotions in virtual reality. This experience provided insights into the challenges faced by individuals in isolated environments, such as astronauts, sparking research into how XR technology can alleviate homesickness in isolated individuals or those in space. Conversations with her mentor led to the conception of a doctoral project. Consequently, Tjaša applied and was accepted into the Cotutelle PhD program at Deakin and Coventry universities. Her doctoral thesis will delve into “Heritage-based Virtual Reality for Well-being in Space.”

Throughout her study visit, Tjaša delivered a lecture on “XR Technology Exploration for Immersive Art Historical Case Study” at Deakin University. She also presented “Communicating Modern Slovenian Art with XR Technology” at the SAAA conference in Canberra, emphasizing innovative ways to convey artistic content using digital tools. Additionally, she presented a paper, “Beyond Borders: Communicating the Unspoken in Slovenian Art,” at the Creative Victoria board meeting in Melbourne.

Beyond her research commitments, Tjaša took pleasure in exploring Australia’s natural wonders. Observing koalas, kangaroos, flying foxes, and echidnas, and relishing the laughter of Kookaburras added to her delight. Accompanied by Dr. Kaja Antlej, Tjaša also visited the Slovenian Association Melbourne in Yarra Valley.

Her research visit proved to be an enriching experience, and she eagerly anticipates her return to Geelong in May 2024 to commence her PhD project. Tjaša looks forward to collaborating once again with the remarkable academics she had the privilege of meeting. She extends her heartfelt thanks to ASEF for facilitating this research visit.