I am sure that the Kids In Museums manifesto will not cause us all to
abandon our use of digital technologies in museums, but it does raise
some valuable issues.

As computers have become more pervasive, so their acceptance as
thoughtless 'wow' factor enhancements by families (read 'parents') in
museums has diminished. This does mean that we need to be rigorous with
our examination of the reasons for choosing particular interpretive
methods.

Although on the surface this manifesto may appear to be a tad 'Luddite',
it is a valuable reminder that we should ensure technology maximises the
augmentation of the physical experience. The Rosetta Stone ('please
don't touch') is an excellent example where imaginative digital media
could add hugely to the interpretation and therefore visitor experience.
Done well, there also should be a seamless integration with the physical
journey as well (perhaps so seamlessly that the audience will no longer
think it remarkable).

Digital interaction also implies that the physical experience can be
continued online. Not only are digital resources extremely portable
(from a physical interactive to online), interaction with them can allow
audiences to capture and extend their learning journey virtually.

It is a concern that this manifesto can express a blanket 'we don't want
computers' message, when really it just means we should be thoughtful in
our use of technology for interpretation. If we constantly question
carefully the reasons of using digital technological to interpret an
object or concept we can then satisfy ourselves that this maximises the
interpretive value for our audience.

A while ago I was involved with a brief for a physical space where,
up-front, the content was deemed unsuitable for interpretation using
digital media. I pointed out that the decision as to suitable use of
interpretive media should not be dictated, but left to the normal
process of exhibition development, with designers, interpreters and
curators exploring how best to interpret the materials and how to most
effectively distribute the available (financial) resources.  

We will increasingly see life through a digital 'lens' as a normal part
of daily interaction with the world. This also has to be inherent in our
interaction with the real museum world, unless museums are to become,
ultimately, museums of themselves.

Keep pressing the buttons.

John Benfield
Head of Digital Media
Royal Shakespeare Company 

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