Interactive Experiences and Contextual Learning in Museums

Abstract

Inspired by the work of John Falk and Lynn Dierking, this article examines the characteristics of museum visitors and their museum experiences in order to provide recommendations for more meaningful learning experiences for future visitors. A recent shifting agenda in museum missions is discussed in respect to its visitors according to the following variables: demographic, psychographic, personal and cultural history, and environmental. Also included are visitor behaviors in relation to time, attention, label reading, and social factors. To investigate museum visitors' experiences, Falk and Dierking's (1992, 2000) Interactive Experience Model and Contextual Model of Learning are explored as means for elaborating on the nature of museum experiences and learning. Recent empirical studies also are examined in order to illustrate new responsive methodologies for engaging museum visitors. In conclusion, it is emphasized that museums can be effective public educational institutions when they meet the needs and expectations of a diverse population of visitors.