Understanding Visitors' Question-Asking Quality in Science Museums Through a Question-Asking Mobile App

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 6
  In Poster Session: Connecting Learning Systems Through Technology (San Diego)

Abstract

This paper investigated the efficacy of two modes (Ask mode and Game mode) of a mobile question-asking app, Dr. Discovery, for fostering high-level questioning by visitors in two museums in the American Southwest. We developed the app to support visitors in asking questions and receiving vetted answers as they explore exhibits. Results showed that the mean question-asking quality of visitor groups at Museum A is higher than that at Museum B. Furthermore, groups who used Game mode at Museum B demonstrated higher mean question quality than those who used Ask mode. In line with the conference theme, this study contributes to the understanding of how technologies in informal learning environments impact diverse visitors.

Authors

• Man Su, Arizona State University

• Luis Enrique Perez Cortes, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College Arizona State University

• Jesse Ha, Arizona State University

• Brian C. Nelson, Arizona State University

• Catherine D.D. Bowman, Arizona State University

• Judd Bowman, Arizona State University