Technology and museum visitor experiences: a four stage model of evolution

Abstract

Research on technology and museum visitor experiences has experienced exponential growth. Despite this, limited studies explicitly examine existing progress in research on the intersection between technology and museum visitor experiences. Specifically, there is limited understanding of how topics studied, and the concepts, theories, models, and frameworks embedded within have evolved in congruence with the forms and types of technology integrated into museum research across time. Consequently, this paper applied a systematic quantitative approach to assess trends in research on technology and museum visitor experiences by critically examining 122 studies. Findings revealed a clear shift of the concepts studied, with early literature focused on basic concepts such as learning and interaction with technology. As the body of knowledge matured, other concepts such as intention and behaviour emerged in discourse, with contemporary literature exploring satisfaction, enjoyment, and virtual presence. Despite this, limited consistency in theories, models, and frameworks applied across time, which reflected a stagnation in stimulating critical discussions in the existing discourse. Furthermore, the forms and types of technology used in studies on museum visitor experiences have shifted from basic computer displays, through to innovative smart technology. This research provides the first attempt to holistically classify and synthesise the evolution of research on technology designed to enhance museum visitor experiences. Five types of technology in the museum sector and a Four Stage Model of Evolution consisting of (I) ICT Incubation; (II) Smart Technology Adoption; (III) ICT Transformation; and (IV) Futuristic Innovation were proposed, which demarcates the evolution of the body of knowledge.