The University of Ulster’s Centre for Media Research (CMR) is to host the Museums Computer Group’s first event in Northern Ireland since 1994.
On Thursday, May 30, a symposium entitled Engaging Visitors Through Play will provide delegates with a platform from which to explore how their museum could use games and play to create meaningful visitor engagement.
As well as showcasing local talent and international best practice, the conference will also afford game developers and arts organisations an insight into emerging opportunities to work with museums both in Northern Ireland and internationally.
Taking place on the Belfast campus, Engaging Visitors Through Play, starts at 12 noon and features lectures, discussions and presentations from University of Ulster experts as well as guest speakers including Lyndsey Jackson (Kabosh Theatre Company), Sharna Jackson (Tate Kids), Matt Johnson (Digital Circle) and Danny Birchall (Wellcome Collection, London).
Organised by Alan Hook, Course Director of Interactive Media Arts at the University of Ulster and PhD student Oonagh Murphy, the afternoon kicks off with a talk on Digital Challenges: Digital Opportunities, by Chair of the Museums Computer Group, Mia Ridge.
"This event will be a great opportunity to initiate conversations between regional museums and companies and researchers who are keen to help them develop new approaches to engaging and growing audiences," said Alan.
"It's a great privilege for CMR to work with the Museums Computer Group and the event has attracted impressive speakers from Northern Ireland and also world-renowned organisations such as Tate and Wellcome Collection, who will inspire people to think about future developments and possibilities.
"This symposium will be a place to start conversations and share ideas with regional digital media industries and the museums and cultural sector in Northern Ireland.
"It’s also a great opportunity for CMR to showcase some of its current research."
Engaging Visitors Through Play takes place on Thursday, May 30, 2013, from 12 – 5pm, at the University of Ulster Belfast Campus, York Street. For full details and to book a place go to:
http://mcgplay.eventbrite.co.uk/orhttp://mcgplay.eventbrite.co.uk/
Notes for editors
TheMuseums Computer Group provide a forum for discussion between museum, gallery, archive and higher education professionals who work with museum technology and digital heritage.
The symposium will also provide delegates with the opportunity to learn more about an organisation that connects, supports and inspires those working in and with museums across the UK.