Thirteenth International Conference on The Inclusive Museum

Abstract

The twenty-first century, the “digital age,” is an exciting, innovative, forward-thinking technological time with the exponential potential to transform the world as we know it. Apple’s iPhone, the takeover of social media, mobile operating systems, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are all by-products of the tech boom that has developed over the past decade and a half. How has digital technology, a by-product of society in the twenty-first century, infiltrated traditional ways of viewing and learning in American art museums today, but also of the future? Digital technologies that are well-researched, thoughtful, and strategic are vital to the future of learning and interpretation in the museum setting. I am investigating how the integration of digital technology makes art museums more accessible, immersive, and interactive by utilizing digital learning tools. This study examines the transformation of informal learning in the art museum space by presenting the possibilities afforded by digital technology. By utilizing these tools to facilitate new ways of interaction and engagement with the museum’s collection, technologies allow museum patrons the opportunity to experience, analyze, engage, and play with the museum’s collection in a new and innovative way. The question is not how, but when will all art museums integrate technology with the desired outcome being learning in the museum space?