e. * Are there preferred pathways through the exhibition? 4. What do people think of Mathematica? a. Does the exhibition communicate a sense of wonder and excitement towards mathematics? b. What elements are memorable? c. * Are the goals of the designers accomplished? d. What elements do visitors report as the least and most enjoyable? 5. What is the long-term impact of Mathematica? a. For repeat visitors, what do they remember from previous visits? b. Do they have memories or anecdotes about lasting effects in their lives? c. Profile a case study.
Audience to be Included in the Study The audience of the study includes a general cross-section of Museum of Science visitors, whether in organized or informal groups, or alone. Observations will be made at various times of day, including both weekends and weekdays.
Timeline • March 24, 2004:
Presentation of final protocols and instruments
• April 12, 2004:
Data acquisition/observations complete
• April 21, 2004:
Presentation of raw data
• May 19, 2004:
Presentation of final report
Methodology A brief overview of methodology The primary method of data collection for this report is Tracking and Timing (Appendix A). User engagement with the components, time spent and path taken through exhibition will be captured in this document. Visitor demographics will also be noted, including age group, gender, size and type of group (see instrument, Appendix A, for detail). The evaluator will also note pre-selected behaviors, including if a visitor manipulates, comments on or asks questions about an exhibit. Protocol for data collection requires the random selection of 50 visitors. Every third visitor over the age of 10 to enter the exhibition will be tracked for data collection. If a group enters, the member in the closest proximity to the evaluator will be selected. A sign will be placed at the entrance to inform visitors of the evaluation in progress.
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