We believe it’s a more lasting and meaningful approach than passive learning. It transforms users from passive bystanders into active participants. People who learn by doing are more likely to retain information and more empowered to use the knowledge after their visit has ended.

The 7 Ways to identify Active Learning:

It is engaging.
Hands-on exhibits work by attracting the visitor's attention and creating incentives to explore the exhibit in depth. Slowing down the visitor allows learning to emerge.

It is immersive.
Meaningful learning goes beyond the visual to involve the whole person in a range of intellectual, emotional, physical, and sensory activities. Interactive means more than just touch screens.

It is enjoyable.
The best interactive exhibits entertain while they inform, providing visitors with meaning as well as magic. A visitor who has fun is more likely to return and share their experience with others.

It is empowering.
Interactive environments strengthen visitor learning by giving control to the individual and encouraging self-directed exploration. Hands-on exhibits should tap the visitor's own skills and knowledge and open the door to further learning.

It is inclusive.
Interactive learning is for everyone, capturing the interest of children as well as adults and families. The design of interactive experiences should appeal to all levels, with each visitor able to learn something of value.

It is supportive.
An interactive environment should welcome visitors in a friendly and informal setting. Active Learning begins when visitors are comfortable and relaxed about what they will experience. Active Learning has no grades and no wrong answers.

It is open-ended.
The best experiences don’t end with the museum visit. Visitors should be able to take their new knowledge and apply it in their own lives.