The Future and Inclusive Role of Natural History Museums

The role of museums, beyond collecting, exhibiting, and scientific research, is increasingly focused on visitor experience and social inclusion. This research aimed to explore how natural history museums can contribute to more inclusive museum practices. In an empirical study at the Hungarian Museum of Natural History, 156 university students participated in guided tours that were part of the museum’s regular educational program. While the traditional, information-centered tour (n = 80) followed the museum’s established guiding method, the experiential (flow-based) tour (n = 76) was developed as an experimental version for the purposes of this research. Data were collected through questionnaire surveys, focus group interviews, and observation. Based on Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) analysis of the quantitative data, analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests were run, which revealed significant differences on several dimensions. Flow-based guided tours were found to be significantly more modern, youthful, diverse, and exciting, while the evaluation of information transfer did not deteriorate. The qualitative data confirmed that the key factor for inclusion is not just the introduction of interactive elements but their coherent integration and the personal communication of the guide. The results indicate that science museums can become more inclusive if they are able to combine scientific authenticity with experiential learning and take into account the age and motivational diversity of visitors.