Digital Differences within Cultural Cornerstones : A Case Study of the Digital Tools and Implementations at the Museum of Ethnography in Stockholm

Abstract: This thesis presents a case study conducted at the Museum of Ethnography in Stockholm, focusing on the digital tools and implementations within the exhibitions of the museum. It aims to explore the perspectives and interactions on digital tools and implementations of both museum employees, and visitors, examining the potential discrepancies that may arise. The study falls within the field of Digital Humanities, with a specific emphasis on the impact of new museology and digital applications within cultural heritage institutions. To establish a comprehensive understanding of the subject, varying ethnographic methodologies are employed. Interviews have been conducted with employees at the museum to investigate their understanding and planning regarding the use of digital tools and implementations in their exhibitions. Additionally, interviews with visitors as well as on-site observations were conducted to provide insight into visitor experiences and interactions with the digital tools and implementations. Lastly, one participatory observation during a tour of an upcoming exhibition was performed to add perspective from the professionals of the museum. The findings reveal that digital tools and implementations are highly regarded as invaluable assets by the Museum of Ethnography. However, the thesis finds that the diverse professional backgrounds within the museum staff adds complexity to understanding the digital tools and implementations, which affects the staff’s ability to find harmonious solutions for problems of accessibility of the tools. Visitors tend to find direct interactions, such as games or educational movies, more accessible and easier to engage with, while immersive sounds and projections may go unnoticed. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge in Digital Humanities by expanding the knowledge about the effective utilization of digital tools and implementations in cultural heritage museums, through this case study. It serves as a guide for other GLAM institutions, offering new diverse perspectives of both museum professionals and visitors.