Quand le passé prend vie: l'utilisation de la réalité virtuelle pour raviver la nostalgie urbaine

Abstract

This thesis explores the phenomenon of urban nostalgia generation through a virtual reality headset. The population studied here is the residents of the city of Liège in the broadest sense, i.e. people living, studying or working in Liège who spend long periods of their lives there. This thesis aims to determine the factors influencing immersion in this environment. Next, this dissertation will explore the phenomenon of urban nostalgia generation with its triggers, typology and effects, particularly on their connection with the city. Finally, practical applications will be suggested. The methodology adopted in this study is quantitative. It involves a preliminary ethnography in order to discover the ‘thick places’ (places of memories) in the city of Liège, following this, 21 people were interviewed individually using a semi-structured questionnaire. 3 people from this sample also took part in a focus group to complete the analysis, which was carried out using thematic coding. The results of the study showed that virtual reality was a very good tool for generating urban nostalgia, which can take several forms: personal, historical, simple and reflexive nostalgia. It is triggered by a number of stimuli, including sensory (music, etc.), emotional (insecurity, etc.) and perception of the city, and translates into architectural regret, among other things, and a reflection on the use of the past to improve the present. Nostalgia positively improved residents' perception of Liège by highlighting its history and heritage, generating a sense of pride. It fostered attachment to the city, however no significant changes in general feelings and sense of belonging to the city could be observed. Potential managerial contributions include the introduction of the VR in cultural institutions in order to revitalise museums with the new generation. The academic contribution, on the other hand, develops a new approach to urban nostalgia via city residents.