Museum Visiting Patterns, Motivations, and Influence Factors

• In Event: 21020 - Section on Sociology of Education Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Table 14: Power, Identity, and Civic Engagement: Exploring Education Beyond the Classroom

Abstract

Museums serve as vital cultural and educational institutions, yet visitor motivations and engagement patterns vary significantly across demographic groups. This study explores the differences in museum experiences between single visitors and parents with children, focusing on preferences for museum types, motivations for attendance, engagement with interactive exhibits, and the role of special exhibitions. Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted 12 field observations at an art museum and a natural history museum, alongside eight semi-structured interviews with diverse participants.

Findings indicate that single visitors prioritize personal enrichment, intellectual engagement, and cultural immersion, often valuing interactive exhibits and special exhibitions for their novelty and ability to challenge perspectives. In contrast, parents are primarily motivated by their children's education and family bonding, selecting museums that foster curiosity and learning through hands-on activities. While both groups appreciate interactivity, single visitors engage with exhibits independently or socially with peers, whereas parents use interactive features as tools to facilitate their children’s learning. External factors such as affordability, accessibility, and museum services further shape visitor experiences, with parents placing particular emphasis on family-friendly amenities.

This study contributes to the sociology of culture and leisure by highlighting how life stage and social roles influence cultural participation. The findings offer practical implications for museum professionals seeking to enhance accessibility, engagement, and inclusivity for diverse audiences.

Keywords: museum visitors, cultural participation, interactive exhibits, family engagement, special exhibitions

Authors

• Kaili Zhang, University of Florida

• Carla E. Tierney, Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida

• Rajani Maharjan, Department of Religion, University of Florida

• Ying-Chen Chen, Department of Tourism, Hospitality & Event Management, University of Florida