Transformative power of cultural heritage: WP2 research update

Welcome to the latest updates from Work Package 2 (WP2) of the META-MUSEUM project!

WP2 aims to provide a robust theoretical framework for designing, implementing, and assessing META-MUSEUM activities. Through a transdisciplinary perspective, our work deepens the understanding of Cultural Heritage’s (CH) transformative nature and fosters an empathic approach that enhances citizens’ confidence and engagement.

Here’s what’s been happening across key tasks:

META-MUSEUM Stakeholder and Audience Study: Key Insights
KMOP, leading this task, conducted an exploratory study on how CH fosters confidence, resilience, and emotional engagement. Through 16 expert interviews (museum professionals, cultural heritage specialists, and social scientists) across nine countries and an online questionnaire reaching 176 participants (general public) in 21 European countries, valuable insights were gathered. These findings will inform the development of an Assessment and Interpretation Model to better understand CH’s societal impact.

Defining Representative Samples for Experimentation
KMOP, in collaboration with partners, will define participant samples for experimental phases. This will ensure inclusivity by considering social, cultural, and economic factors to create a representative participant pool for upcoming pilots and experiments.

Developing the Assessment and Interpretation Model
KMOP has developed methodological guidelines, with contributions from all partners, to structure the assessment model for validating experimentations. This framework integrates neurophysiological, cognitive, and sociological analyses to ensure a comprehensive evaluation process.

Research Questionnaires in Museums
OPI-PIB prepared a comprehensive questionnaire for research in Museo Egizio (Italy), MAC Barcelona (Spain), and MuseoParc Alesia (France). These surveys will measure visitors’ expectations, attitudes, and emotions before and after their visit, complementing real-time emotional and neural activity tracking. This marks the first stage of an extensive research effort.

TMt Framework Undergoing Initial Testing
Under POLITO’s leadership, the Transformative Means Theory (TMt) is currently undergoing its first round of testing. Through status quo measurements in museums, an iterative refinement process between the TMt framework and experimental design is actively shaping the research methodology.

Educational Modules Development
EMA has completed a peer review of interviews and survey analyses regarding expectations of life and museums. Work continues on the alpha version of a training module based on the TMt framework, incorporating insights from award-winning and nominated museums to enhance learning resources.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore how CH can foster a more empathetic and connected society!