E-Thesis 150 views
How Do XR Technologies Remediate Museum Curatorial Practices and User Experience? / ZHENNUO SONG
Swansea University Author: ZHENNUO SONG
DOI (Published version): 10.23889/SUthesis.67352
Abstract
Over the past 20 years, the integration of digital media into museum curatorial methodologies and visitor engagement strategies has been profound, with extended reality (XR) technologies emerging as pivotal components in this digital museology evolution. A review of existing literature highlights fo...
| Published: |
Swansea, Wales, UK
2024
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| Institution: | Swansea University |
| Degree level: | Doctoral |
| Degree name: | Ph.D |
| Supervisor: | Evans, Leighton, Rees, Sian |
| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa67352 |
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| Abstract: |
Over the past 20 years, the integration of digital media into museum curatorial methodologies and visitor engagement strategies has been profound, with extended reality (XR) technologies emerging as pivotal components in this digital museology evolution. A review of existing literature highlights focuses on the technological tools and solutions, the various forms of experience modalities as well as evaluation process, findings, and limitations of XR cases in cultural heritage (CH). However, there are few instances of research that focuses on the theoretical aspects of this use of XR. This gap presents a significant opportunity to provide explanations for the effectiveness (or failures) of XR museum applications from a theoretical and philosophical position. To bridge this gap, the current research adopts phenomenological and post-phenomenological frameworks to theoretically underpin the operational success of XR in CH applications. Employing a qualitative research approach, this thesis analyzes data from case studies, surveys, and interviews. The investigation encompasses four case studies, including one AR and three VR applications, leveraging user experience (UX) testing methods such as semi-structured observations and interviews to gauge 22 user responses to XR museum exhibits. The sample size of 22 users was determined based on typical museum visitor profiles to ensure a representative range of perspectives. Furthermore, discussions with 22 XR specialists and museum curators were conducted to gain insight into the design and development motivations behind these applications. Findings reveal two main areas: digital curation's influence on conceptualizing and delivering virtual museum experiences, and these experiences' impact on visitor engagement. Importantly, this research proposes a philosophical shift in museum conceptualization, treating artifacts as living history that fosters an emotional and interactive visitor experience. This vision champions museums as dynamic, responsive entities, where technology and narrative create a sense of home and belonging, inviting visitors to actively participate in and contribute to the cultural narrative. |
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| Item Description: |
ORCiD identifier https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1053-7816 |
| Keywords: |
extended reality, museums, curation, user experience, phenomenology, revealing of things |
| College: |
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences |