Abstract
In allowing visitors to manipulate objects or models with their hands, science museums can become informal education institutions. However, little research has been conducted analyzing the specific interactions of visitors at museums and the effects that specific characteristics of interactive exhibit have on visitors. This research classified exhibits according to the three characteristics: the presentation of concepts, interaction with exhibits and concept levels. Further, relationships among engagement behaviors, visitors'attraction to exhibits, and the holding power of exhibits were analyzed. Using the three characteristics, 55 exhibits were classified into five styles. The results suggest that intriguing content and novel interfaces, maximizing information on science and technology, should be developed for the educational purpose of encouraging visitors to engage in active learning with interactive exhibits. The results of this study provide useful data that planners, designers, and instructors of science museums can use to maximize visitors' participatory learning and interactions.