Communication, Education and Innovation in Museums

2025-03-15

Coordinators:

Julio González-Liendo, UDIT, Universidad de Diseño, Innovación y Tecnología

Mónica Viñarás Abad, Universidad Complutense de Madrid

Francisco Cabezuelo Lorenzo, Universidad Complutense de Madrid

Summary:

The integration of digital technologies in museums has ushered in a new era, transforming them from traditional spaces of passive observation into dynamic and interactive environments. Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and immersive gaming experiences are now central tools in museums, revolutionizing both educational and exhibition practices. These technologies not only enhance visitor engagement but also provide innovative ways to experience and understand cultural heritage. The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, for example, has adopted AR through Jenny Holzer's installation, adding layers of digital content to the physical space, creating a more interactive experience for visitors. Similarly, the Musée d'Orsay in Paris successfully launched the "Hello, Vincent" experience about Van Gogh, where visitors could interact directly with the artist.

In recent years, museums have increasingly embraced AR and VR to create immersive and personalized experiences, allowing for deeper exploration of collections and making art, history, and science more accessible to diverse audiences. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift toward virtual and online exhibitions, further expanding museums' reach beyond their physical spaces and facilitating global access to cultural content. However, integrating these technologies is not without challenges, such as high implementation costs, the need for specialized staff training, and the potential risk of digital innovation overshadowing traditional museum experiences.

This research call explores the use of AR, VR, AI, and other digital tools in museums, examining their role in educational activities and exhibitions. Proposals are expected to discuss the benefits and limitations of these technologies, as well as assessments of their impact on visitor engagement. Case studies of museums that have successfully incorporated digital innovations and best practices are also encouraged. By focusing on both educational and curatorial applications, this call aims to highlight the potential of these technologies to democratize access to cultural content and enhance learning outcomes in museum settings.

Research Topics for Article Submissions

  • The role of augmented reality in enhancing museum education
  • Virtual museums and immersive experiences
  • AI in personalized museum experiences
  • Digital preservation and restoration of cultural heritage
  • The impact of video games on museum exhibitions
  • The future of hybrid museum experiences: physical and digital
  • Challenges and limitations of technological integration in museums
  • The role of digital technologies in expanding global museum access
  • Ethical considerations in the use of AI and AR in museums
  • Cultural inclusion and accessibility through digital technologies
  • Digital communication strategies in museums
  • Innovative initiatives in museum education
  • Other relevant proposals in the field of museology and museography

Keywords:

  • Augmented Reality (AR)
  • Virtual Reality (VR)
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Digital Museums
  • Immersive Experiences
  • Cultural Accessibility
  • Technological Innovation

 

Proposal submission deadline: 30/01/2026