Study on the Usefulness of Space Exploration Applications as Museum Educational Content: Focusing on the Self-Directedness of the Tween Generation

This study analyzed the educational effects of spatial exploration applications in museums to explore their potential as educational programs for the Tween generation. The research focused on <The Lost Letter - Kim Gu and the Korean Patriotic Corps> from the Kim Koo Museum & Library and <Memory Cinema - 1937> from Seodaemun Prison History Hall, using the cyclical process of action-reflection-anticipation presented in the <OECD Learning Compass 2030> as analytical criteria. The analysis revealed that spatial exploration applications effectively implement on-site learning through direct interaction with museum collections, align with the characteristics of digital native generations who prefer game-based learning, and promote self-directed learning. In particular, the experiential storytelling that allows users to assume the perspective of historical figures demonstrates elements that enable a deeper understanding of historical contexts. This aligns with the emphasis on developing self-directedness in the ‘2022 Revised National Curriculum’ show-ing new possibilities for museum education in response to future educational environment changes. Furthermore, the study confirmed that the Tween generation's networking, activist, and explorer characteristics naturally emerge through interactions with exhibits, enhancing the immersive effect. However, the analysis indicates a need for improvement in online communication features between learners and functions for connected in-depth learning. This study confirms that spatial exploration applications have significance as a new educational methodology that reflects the characteristics of the Tween generation while implementing the essence of museum education.