Exploring the suitability of virtual reality interactivity for exhibitions through an integrated evaluation: the case of the Ename Museum

Pujol Tost, L. and Economou, M. (2007) Exploring the suitability of virtual reality interactivity for exhibitions through an integrated evaluation: the case of the Ename Museum. Museology, 4, pp. 81-97.

Abstract

The characteristics of Virtual Reality seem to fit current museological trends, which understand the visit as an active immersion in a multimedia environment. However, this suitability remains theoretical and should be verified through empirical evaluations, especially because VR and exhibitions correspond to different communication paradigms. In fact, as previous studies indicate, the potential advantages of Information and Communication Technologies seem to be effectively used in the formal learning environment but have problems of integration in the informal one. The Ename Museum (Ename, Belgium) is used as a case study in order to evaluate the effect of ICT applications on visitors’ experience. This offers the opportunity to compare three kinds of ICT communicational formulae and evaluate their effectiveness. After an initial discussion about the theoretical relation between Virtual Reality and current museological trends, this paper presents the results of the evaluation conducted at the Ename Museum, focusing on the issue of interactivity. Its ultimate intention is to contribute to the construction of a wide-encompassing body of empirical knowledge and specific methodological standards aimed at guiding future designs and evaluations of exhibitions.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Pujol-Tost, Dr Laia and Economou, Professor Maria
• Authors: Pujol Tost, L., and Economou, M.
• College/School: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > Information Studies
• Journal Name: Museology
• Publisher: University of the Aegean
• ISSN: 1109-9348