Speaker
Description
Since 2001, the Pierre Auger Observatory’s Visitor Center has served as a bridge between complex astrophysics and the public. In recent years, the center has undergone a significant transformation in content delivery, guided by specialized studies in user-centered design, user experience, and the cognitive and emotional dimensions of learning. These updates aim to enhance scientific literacy, foster a sense of "knowledge appropriation," and address areas for improvement identified through direct visitor feedback. To evaluate this evolution, the Observatory conducted a comprehensive social impact study focusing on its local community and the effectiveness of its public communication strategies. The research employed a qualitative, phenomenological design to explore how participants interact with materials and how staff perceive these engagement activities. To ensure academic rigor, the team utilized Reflective Thematic Analysis alongside quantitative surveys. This methodology allowed for the identification of patterns and themes within the data, ensuring the validity of the results, which we present in this contribution. Ultimately, this framework provides a robust mechanism to align institutional goals with visitor preferences, evaluating how strategic development decisions directly influence the visitor experience.
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