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Enhancing Cultural Sustainability in Ethnographic Museums: A Multi-Dimensional Visitor Experience Framework Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP)

Author

Listed:
  • Chao Ruan

    (Art and Design Institute, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
    Silk and Fashion Culture Center, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China)

  • Suhui Qiu

    (Art and Design Institute, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China)

  • Hang Yao

    (Art and Design Institute, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China)

Abstract

This study examines how a visitor-centered approach enhances engagement, participation, and intangible heritage transmission to support cultural sustainability in ethnographic museums. We conducted online and on-site behavioral observations, questionnaire surveys, and in-depth interviews at the She Ethnic Minority Museum to identify gaps in current visitor experience design. We combined the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) with the Contextual Model of Learning (POE) and Emotional Experience Theory (EET) to develop a hierarchical evaluation model. The model comprises one goal layer, three criterion layers (Experience, Participation, Transmission), and twelve sub-criteria, each evaluated across People, Object, and Environment dimensions. Quantitative weighting revealed that participation exerts the greatest influence, followed by transmission and experience. Findings indicate that targeted interventions promoting active participation most effectively foster emotional resonance and heritage transmission, while strategies supporting intergenerational engagement and immersive experiences also play a significant role. We recommend prioritizing small-scale, low-cost participatory initiatives and integrating online and offline community engagement to establish a participatory chain where engagement leads to meaningful experiences and sustained cultural transmission. These insights offer practical guidance for museum practitioners and policymakers seeking to enhance visitor experiences and ensure the long-term preservation and vibrancy of ethnic minority cultural heritage.

Suggested Citation

  • Chao Ruan & Suhui Qiu & Hang Yao, 2025. "Enhancing Cultural Sustainability in Ethnographic Museums: A Multi-Dimensional Visitor Experience Framework Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP)," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-20, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:15:p:6915-:d:1713192
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Saphinaz-Amal Naguib, 2013. "Museums, Diasporas and the Sustainability of Intangible Cultural Heritage," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 5(5), pages 1-13, May.
    2. Piera Buonincontri & Alessandra Marasco & Haywantee Ramkissoon, 2017. "Visitors’ Experience, Place Attachment and Sustainable Behaviour at Cultural Heritage Sites: A Conceptual Framework," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 9(7), pages 1-19, June.
    3. Jiyun Chen, 2024. "Factors Affecting Cultural Transmission in Museum Tourism: An Empirical Study with Mediation Analysis," SAGE Open, , vol. 14(3), pages 21582440241, August.
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    1. Sofia Corradini & Stefania Funari & Silvio Giove, 2026. "An Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) framework for artist ranking: evidence from an art gallery in Italy," Working Papers 2026: 15, Department of Economics, University of Venice "Ca' Foscari".

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