This paper describes how an understanding of visitors could improve visitor services and museum experiences in order to maximize the attainment of museum objectives. Data from preliminary research at the Nehru Science Centre in India and implementation of findings in day-to-day management of science centre activities has brought about perceptible results, especially in creating new audiences and retaining visitors, thereby increasing overall visitor numbers and, above all, creating a renewed interest in the science centre among the community.
This article discusses one of many studies conducted at Colonial Williamsburg for the purpose of strengthening the learning experience for families. The study was conducted in 1993-1996 and continues to match what current audiences tell staff year after year. The article includes a brief description of the methodology used a discussion of what researchers learned and how interpreters can apply these lessons to their daily interpretations.
This paper discusses objectives, methods, and findings from a 1992 comprehensive evaluation of the Children's Museum, part of the Canadian Museum of Civilization. This classical program evaluation aimed to inform the planning and designing of an expansion project.
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Nancy StaiseyHarry Needham
resourceresearchMuseum and Science Center Programs
In this paper, Florence Bramley of The Graphics Group presents an exercise and research that encourage gentler approaches to warning messages used in museums or zoos.
In this paper, researchers from Science Learning, Inc. discuss findings from an evaluation study that used interpretive carts to analyze visitor conversations. Researchers collected data using the "Rock Talk" cart to inform the redesign of the Geology, Gems & Minerals Hall at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History.
This paper discusses the "Growing Up and Away" project at the Glenbow Museum in Calgary, in which a team consisting of a curator, programmer, designer and project team leader, developed a family-friendly exhibit that showcased the vast diversity of Glenbow's collection of artifacts related to childhood. This paper outlines the team's approach to development, front-end evaluation, formative evaluation, advisory groups, and related programs.