Adaptive Circular Model of Immersion (ACMI): A Systemic Framework for the Enhancement of Cultural Heritage through Virtual and Augmented Reality in African Museums and Libraries

Abstract

The growing adoption of immersive technologies has transformed the preservation, interpretation, and dissemination of cultural heritage worldwide. While Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) have demonstrated their potential to enhance visitor engagement and learning, most existing theoretical models have been developed in technologically advanced contexts and remain insufficiently adapted to the institutional, cultural, and infrastructural realities of African museums and university libraries. This study addresses this gap by proposing Cissé's Adaptive Circular Model of Immersion (ACMI), a systemic framework that integrates technological, human, institutional, and contextual dimensions into a unified model for immersive cultural heritage experiences.

A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among 250 respondents drawn from the Central University Library of Cheikh Anta Diop University and the Léopold Sédar Senghor Museum in Senegal. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS 4. The measurement model was assessed in terms of reliability and validity, while the structural model was evaluated using path coefficients, bootstrapping, coefficients of determination, effect sizes and predictive relevance.

The findings indicate that interaction, cultural mediation, technological readiness and contextual adaptation significantly influence immersive experiences and visitor engagement. Unlike conventional technology-centred models, the ACMI demonstrates that the effectiveness of immersive technologies depends on the continuous interaction between technological capabilities, institutional objectives, cultural mediation and local contextual conditions. The model therefore provides a holistic explanation of how immersive experiences contribute to heritage valorisation in African cultural institutions.

This study contributes to the literature by introducing one of the first empirically validated systemic models specifically designed for African museums and university libraries. Beyond its theoretical contribution, the ACMI offers practical guidance for museum professionals, librarians, policymakers and researchers seeking to implement sustainable and culturally responsive immersive technologies.

Keywords: Adaptive Circular Model of Immersion (ACMI); Virtual Reality; Augmented Reality; Cultural Heritage; Museums; University Libraries; Cultural Mediation; PLS-SEM; SmartPLS 4; Africa.

Received Date: June 19, 2026

Accepted Date: July 10, 2026

Published Date: August 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/795