Interaction and Affect are Key: Understanding Technology Demonstrators for Science Communication on Dialogue Events

Abstract

Demonstrators are out-of-the-lab artefacts that embody current technological research. Due to their interactive, exhibit-like nature, demonstrators have great potential to engage the public with future technologies. While demonstrators are already used for this purpose in practice, there is a gap regarding how to measure demonstrator experience and its impact on knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral intentions regarding the demonstrated technology. We propose a research model and test it using data from a field study combining systematic observation of visitors engaging with a demonstrator and a standardized follow-up survey (n = 87). Results indicate that affect and tangible interaction are important qualities for demonstrator-based science communication.