Author Date

2024-6

Degree Name

BFA

Department

None

College

Fine Arts and Communications

Defense Date

2024-05-21

Publication Date

2024-06-08

First Faculty Advisor

Brent Barson

First Faculty Reader

Linda Reynolds

Honors Coordinator

Douglas Thomas

Keywords

multisensory, museum education, learning autonomy, interactive exhibit

Abstract

Museums are unique spaces of teaching and learning. Museum exhibits transcend the constraints of classroom learning by leveraging visitors’ curiosity and allowing for increased learning autonomy. However, this learning often comes solely through visual interaction, due to museums’ role in preservation and protection of their collection. Though visual-based learning is common in museums and in Western education at large, multisensory elements cement learning autonomy and prompt visitors to learn through play. These principles are exemplified through children’s’ museums, science museums, and museum adaptations for blind and low-vision visitors. Through multisensory adaptations, traditional museums can transform their impact on visitors. This creative component of this project is the practical extension of these principles. The exhibit imagines if the Metropolitan Museum of Art used in-gallery, multisensory elements to allow visitors of all ages to connect more deeply with the works on view.