UnEarthed Summative Evaluation Report

The present study was conducted to evaluate the dedicated natural science exhibit space at Creative Discovery Museum. The previous exhibit, known as Excavation Station, closed in February 2023, and the renovated UnEarthed (UE) space opened in June 2023. This study aims to clarify the effect of renovations on visitor experience. Specific evaluation questions included:
1. What kind of attention are the areas and elements of UnEarthed receiving from children and their families? What about school groups?
a. How does it compare to the pre-renovation Excavation Station?
2. Does exhibit engagement vary by participant demographics or time of observation?
3. What types of behavioral indicators of learning outcomes are observed in UnEarthed and at which specific elements do they occur frequently?
4. How do families feel about the new space?

To accomplish those aims, the following methods were used: 75 timing & tracking of general admission (including member) children and accompanying behavioral observations, 25 timing & tracking of students on CDM's STEM School Tour, and 45 interviews with general admission families.