The experience of families visiting the virtual exhibition “Aedes: which mosquito is this?” at Museu da Vida (RJ)

Abstract

In this study, we analyzed the interactions of six families visiting virtual exhibition “Aedes: which mosquito is this?” at Museu da Vida (RJ). The objectives were: to identify the most relevant interactions with the exposition and conversations between family members during the visits; analyze aspects of usability and navigability; and identify specificities of the family public regarding virtual visitation to museums and science centers. Data collection occurred by applying an online questionnaire, using the free Flashback Recorder Express program during the family’s visitation, in addition to conducting a semi-structured online interview after the visit. The data were categorized and analyzed, in the case of audiovisual data, using the Dedoose software. The results indicated a positive valuation about the visitation experience, with children playing a leading role. We noticed that the family members talk to each other to figure out how to get around and perform actions in cyberspace; they value the 
possibility of interactivity and learning, with interactive totems arousing the most interest and positive emotions; and they seek the exposition texts partially, despite lack of interest in reading. As for the aspect of virtuality, in addition to barriers associated with non-functioning, the immersive nature is accompanied by difficulties with usability and navigability, which, although intuitively overcome, are associated with negative emotions and could be minimize by providing more information to users.