Effects of different types of digital exhibits on children’s experiences in science museums

Abstract

Science museums have always been considered an important informal education resource for children. However, despite extensive literature on experience and learning in the context of science museums, the roles played by digital exhibits in children’s experiences are still not fully understood. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and understand the roles of different types of digital exhibits in improving children’s experiences by analyzing their average holding time (AHT). The data of children’s AHT on digital exhibits were collected through observation of children’s behaviours on sampled digital exhibits in the Liaoning Science and Technology Museum. In addition, effects of new interactive digital technologies and digital screens were verified. Results showed that hands-on digital exhibits are more effective than hands-off digital exhibits in attracting children’s attention. Interactive exhibits with touch screens are also attractive and can hold children’s experience time.

Keywords:

• Science museum
• children
• digital exhibit
• average holding time
• interaction
• museum experience

Acknowledgement

I would like to thank my supervisor Professor Yoo Bohyeon from the Industrial Design Department of Kyonggi University of South Korea.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the autho(s).

Additional information

Funding

This study was funded by the Liaoning Province Education Department (JYT2020098), Shenyang Aerospace University (20YB15), and the Key R&D project of the Science and Technology Department of Liaoning Province.

Notes on contributors

Qiang Li

Qiang Li is a senior lecturer at the Digital Media Department, Shenyang Aerospace University. His PhD research project focuses on the digital interactive exhibits and their effects on user experience. His other research interests include human–computer interaction, user experience and digital cultural heritage.