Redefining Personalisation - AI-Enhanced Museum Experiences Through Social Interaction and Serendipity: Designing Visitor-Centered AI Agents to Foster Inclusion in the British Museum

Abstract

This research explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can redefine personalisation in museums by integrating social interaction and serendipity into visitor experiences. Traditional AI applications in museums—such as chatbots and smart navigation—often prioritize efficiency over engagement, resulting in diminished interpersonal connection and reduced opportunities for unexpected discovery. This project proposes the design of an AI Agent prototype capable of real-time, adaptive responses that support inclusive and dynamic visitor experiences. Using the British Museum as a case study, the research follows a four-phase methodology. In the first phase, expert interviews with AI developers, museum professionals, and designers are conducted to understand current limitations and possibilities in AI-mediated cultural experiences. The second phase involves visitor-focused surveys and interviews, drawing on the UX Honeycomb Framework and Place Attachment Theory, to identify diverse user needs and expectations. In the third phase, participatory design workshops bring together experts and museum audiences to co-create experience scenarios that guide prototype development. The final phase involves designing and testing an AI prototype using Adobe XD and GPT-based models, followed by evaluation using the Technology Acceptance Model to assess user satisfaction and perceived usefulness. This Innovation Showcase presents a practice-based, research-led approach to enhancing museum accessibility and inclusivity through AI. By redefining personalisation to include surprise and social interaction, the project aims to support museums in evolving into adaptive, visitor-centered spaces that foster meaningful cultural engagement.

Presenters

Danyang Li
Student, Master of Science, University of the Arts London, London, City of, United Kingdom

Yimeng Li
Student, PhD, University of Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom

Details

Presentation Type

Poster Session

Theme

2025 Special Focus—Galleries, Libraries, Archives & Museums: Engines of Innovation and Social Participation

KEYWORDS

Artificial Intelligence, Museum Personalisation, Visitor Experience, Social Interaction, Participatory Design