Impact of interactive technologies on stimulating learning experiences in a museum

This research proposes a model to assess visitors' learning and engagement with interactive technologies. We test this model with a field study conducted at a French museum where 174 surveys were returned. The results indicate that IT dimensions, namely ease-of-use and interactivity, influence emotional processes (authenticity and cognitive engagement), which in turn influence learning. Our findings show that when users perceive the interaction with technology as being intuitive and interactive, they experience higher levels of cognitive engagement. We also provide recommendations to professionals of the edutainment sector to use interactive technologies to engage their audiences, thereby ensuring positive learning experiences. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.