Methods of Collecting Data

Observations: 

Observation, in my opinion, is the number one technique here at MOXI. It is something with naturally do throughout any given day. Also, going deeper and spending dedicated time observing is fairly easy in this space. 

Pros: 

• easily attained
• does not disrupt guest experience/learning/interactions
• no need to get consent or liability releases
• can use security cameras for longer study

Cons: 

• may not be able to follow thought process -- can only make inferences
• inferences might be wrong
• feeling creepy 🤣
• takes lots of time

Interviews: 

I feel that interviews (informally) would be number two at MOXI. We can casually ask questions to guests in order to gain valuable information about their experience such as what they are learning and their thought process. 

Pros: 

• can ask about thought process
• removes need to infer information
• informal interviews can be done simply and easily on the floor

Cons: 

• people may not want to be asked questions/involved in an interview
• sometimes we cannot put our thoughts into words
• sometimes when we are asked about our thoughts we embellish
• interrupts the guest's process

Surveys: 

Surveys seem like the last resort in a way at MOXI. Although they can be the most informative! 

Pros: 

• anonymity of answers
• direct questions
• parents can do surveys while kids play
• can probe for other useful information such as demographics, etc

Cons: 

• disrupts process
• people may be reluctant to take survey
• may not want to answer some of the questions
• takes time to put together, roll out, and review responses