Visitor Studies

Scope & Guideline

Advancing Knowledge in Visitor Experiences

Introduction

Explore the comprehensive scope of Visitor Studies through our detailed guidelines, including its aims and scope. Stay updated with trending and emerging topics, and delve into declining areas to understand shifts in academic interest. Our guidelines also showcase highly cited topics, featuring influential research making a significant impact. Additionally, discover the latest published papers and those with high citation counts, offering a snapshot of current scholarly conversations. Use these guidelines to explore Visitor Studies in depth and align your research initiatives with current academic trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1064-5578
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1988 to 1989, from 1992 to 1993, from 2007 to 2024
AbbreviationVISIT STUD / Visit. Stud.
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OX14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

Visitor Studies focuses on understanding the dynamics of visitor engagement, learning, and experiences within various informal learning environments such as museums, zoos, and science centers. The journal emphasizes empirical research and evaluation methodologies to improve visitor experiences and inform best practices in exhibit design and educational programming.
  1. Visitor Engagement and Experience:
    Research aimed at understanding how visitors interact with exhibits and the factors that influence their learning and engagement.
  2. Evaluation Methodologies:
    Utilization of various assessment tools and frameworks to evaluate the effectiveness of educational interventions and visitor experiences.
  3. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    Integration of insights from fields such as psychology, education, and design to address complex issues related to visitor studies.
  4. Accessibility and Inclusion:
    Exploration of barriers faced by diverse visitor groups, particularly those with disabilities, and strategies to enhance inclusivity in informal learning settings.
  5. Environmental and Conservation Education:
    Investigating how informal learning environments can promote pro-environmental behaviors and awareness among visitors.
  6. Community Engagement and Impact:
    Examining the role of community facilitators and social contexts in shaping visitor experiences and learning outcomes.
Recent publications in Visitor Studies indicate a shift towards innovative and inclusive approaches to understanding visitor interactions. Emerging themes reflect the evolving landscape of informal learning and the need for adaptive strategies in visitor engagement.
  1. Impact of Technology on Learning:
    There is a growing emphasis on how digital tools, such as augmented reality and interactive exhibits, enhance visitor learning experiences.
  2. Collaborative Learning Environments:
    Research increasingly focuses on the role of social interactions, particularly among families and groups, in enhancing the educational impact of museum visits.
  3. Values-Based and Environmental Education:
    Emerging studies explore how values-based interpretations and messaging can influence visitor attitudes and behaviors towards environmental conservation.
  4. Community-Centric Approaches:
    A trend towards engaging community members as facilitators and co-creators of exhibits, highlighting the importance of local context and relevance in visitor experiences.
  5. Accessibility Innovations:
    A surge in research dedicated to improving accessibility for diverse visitor populations, particularly those with disabilities, indicating a broader commitment to inclusive practices.

Declining or Waning

While Visitor Studies has a robust focus on various themes, certain areas of research are becoming less prominent. This reflects shifts in visitor needs, societal changes, and emerging priorities within the field.
  1. Traditional Educational Methods:
    There is a noticeable decline in research focused solely on traditional didactic teaching methods in favor of more engaging, hands-on, and experiential learning approaches.
  2. Narrow Focus on Individual Visitor Behavior:
    Research concentrating exclusively on individual visitor behaviors without considering group dynamics or social interactions is increasingly rare, as studies now emphasize collaborative learning.
  3. Static Exhibit Evaluation:
    The trend has shifted away from evaluating static exhibits in isolation, with a growing interest in dynamic, interactive, and immersive exhibit experiences.

Similar Journals

MUSEOLOGIA SCIENTIFICA

Transforming Knowledge into Museum Excellence
Publisher: ASSOC NAZIONALE MUSEI SCIISSN: 1123-265XFrequency: 1 issue/year

MUSEOLOGIA SCIENTIFICA is a distinguished journal dedicated to the study and advancement of museology, published by the ASSOCIAZIONE NAZIONALE MUSEI SCIENTIFICI in Italy. Focusing on a wide array of topics within the realm of science museums, the journal offers rich insights and research findings that shape the future of museum practices and education. Although currently not an open-access publication, MUSEOLOGIA SCIENTIFICA provides a vital platform for scholars, practitioners, and students interested in the preservation, curation, and display of scientific artifacts. By contributing to the discourse on innovative museum practices, the journal plays a crucial role in enhancing the professional standards within the field while promoting collaboration among museums worldwide. We invite researchers and practitioners alike to explore its valuable content, aimed at broadening understanding and knowledge in the ever-evolving landscape of museology.

International Journal of the Inclusive Museum

Exploring the future of museums for all.
Publisher: Common Ground Research NetworksISSN: 1835-2014Frequency: 2 issues/year

The International Journal of the Inclusive Museum, published by Common Ground Research Networks, is a leading scholarly journal that focuses on the intersections of museum studies, conservation, and inclusivity in cultural institutions. With an ISSN of 1835-2014 and E-ISSN 1835-2022, this journal has achieved an impressive Q1 ranking in both Conservation and Museology categories, reflecting its significant impact on the field since its inception in 2008. Covering a diverse range of topics related to museum practices, visitor engagement, and heritage studies, the journal provides a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students passionate about advancing inclusive practices in museums globally. As an important resource in the academic community, it contributes to the ongoing conversation on how museums can become more accessible and relevant to diverse audiences in the contemporary landscape.

KOEDOE

Championing open access to vital ecological research.
Publisher: AOSISISSN: 0075-6458Frequency: 1 issue/year

KOEDOE, an esteemed journal in the field of ecology and environmental science, has been a vital platform for scholarly discourse since its inception in 1958. Published by AOSIS in South Africa, this open-access journal facilitates the dissemination of high-quality research and insights, contributing to advancements in ecological understanding and practice. With an impressive Q2 ranking in Ecology and Q3 ranking in Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Systematics as of 2023, it serves as a crucial resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal’s commitment to open access ensures that the latest findings are readily available to a global audience, fostering an inclusive academic community. KOEDOE's inception periods span significant years, marking its evolution alongside the ecological challenges of our time. Its Scopus ranking underscores its impact and relevance in the fields of agricultural and biological sciences, making it an essential read for those seeking to deepen their understanding of ecological dynamics.

South African Museums Association Bulletin

Innovating Conservation: Bridging Theory and Practice
Publisher: SOUTH AFRICAN MUSEUMS ASSOCISSN: 0370-8314Frequency: 2 issues/year

The South African Museums Association Bulletin, ISSN 0370-8314, is a pivotal resource for researchers, professionals, and students in the fields of Arts and Humanities, Conservation, History, and Museology. Published by the SOUTH AFRICAN MUSEUMS ASSOCIATION, this journal serves as an authoritative platform for disseminating significant research, innovative ideas, and case studies crucial to the museum sector in South Africa and beyond. With an impact factor placing it in the Q3 quartile across multiple categories in 2023, it reflects a growing recognition among the academic community for addressing contemporary issues in the museum field. Though it is not an open-access journal, the Bulletin strives to enhance scholarly discourse by facilitating access to vital resources and studies. Covering converged years from 2019 to 2022, it stands as a beacon for advancing the study and practice of museology, making it an essential read for those dedicated to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage.

Christian Higher Education

Shaping the Future of Faith-Based Higher Education
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1536-3759Frequency: 5 issues/year

Christian Higher Education is a distinguished academic journal that focuses on the intersection of educational practices and Christian theology, published by TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD. Since its inception in 2002, the journal has provided a platform for innovative research and scholarly dialogue, contributing significantly to the realms of Education and Religious Studies. With a 2023 categorization of Q4 in Education and Q2 in Religious Studies, it demonstrates a commitment to high-quality scholarship, further evidenced by its Scopus ranking in the 87th percentile for Religious Studies. The journal is particularly valuable for researchers, educators, and practitioners seeking to enrich their understanding of Christian perspectives in higher education. Through rigorously peer-reviewed articles and engaging content, Christian Higher Education plays an essential role in shaping the academic landscape and fostering a deeper exploration of faith in educational contexts. For those seeking to contribute to this vital discourse, access is available via traditional subscriptions, providing a gateway to a wealth of knowledge and insights.

Tourism Review

Connecting academia and practice in tourism development.
Publisher: EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 1660-5373Frequency: 4 issues/year

Tourism Review, published by Emerald Group Publishing Ltd, stands as a premier academic journal dedicated to advancing the field of tourism studies, with an impressive focus on geography, planning, and development. This journal, which has been contributing to the academic community since 2001, is ranked in the top quartile (Q1) for both Geography, Planning and Development and Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Management, reflecting its significant impact and authority in the sector. With an exceptional standing in Scopus rankings—14th out of 821 in Social Sciences and 15th out of 146 in Business, Management, and Accounting—Tourism Review provides rigorous, peer-reviewed research that is essential for scholars, practitioners, and students engaged with contemporary tourism issues. This journal serves as a crucial platform for disseminating knowledge and fostering innovative solutions within the tourism sector, thereby contributing to sustainable development and enriching the experience of travelers worldwide. Although not an open-access journal, it offers valuable insights and comprehensive research suitable for those who wish to deepen their understanding of tourism dynamics.

Journal of Heritage Tourism

Cultivating a Deeper Understanding of Heritage and Tourism
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1743-873XFrequency: 6 issues/year

Journal of Heritage Tourism, published by Routledge Journals, part of Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a leading peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of heritage tourism. As a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students in the fields of History and Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Management, this journal has consistently achieved high rankings, securing a Q1 quartile in History and Q2 in Tourism for 2023. With an impressive Scopus rank of #3 out of 1760 in Arts and Humanities - History and #42 out of 146 in Business - Tourism, it underscores the journal’s importance and relevance in contemporary scholarship. Spanning contributions from 2006 to 2024, the journal provides a platform for innovative research, critical discussions, and comprehensive analyses, fostering a greater understanding of the complex relationships between heritage and tourism. Although it does not currently offer open access, insights published within this journal remain accessible for institutional libraries and academic communities worldwide, ensuring that the ongoing discourse around heritage tourism flourishes.

JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL EDUCATION

Exploring New Frontiers in Chemical Teaching
Publisher: AMER CHEMICAL SOCISSN: 0021-9584Frequency: 12 issues/year

JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL EDUCATION, published by the American Chemical Society, is a prestigious peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing the teaching and learning of chemistry. With a longstanding history spanning from 1924 to 2024, this journal plays a vital role in disseminating innovative research and pedagogical strategies that enhance educational practices in the chemical sciences. It boasts an impressive impact factor, ranking in the Q2 category for both Chemistry (miscellaneous) and Education in 2023, reflecting its significance within the field. The journal's robust Scopus rankings underscore its influence, with a percentile standing of 85th in Social Sciences _ Education and 67th in General Chemistry. Researchers and educators alike will benefit from its rich selection of articles and resources aimed at fostering effective teaching methodologies and improving student engagement in chemistry education. While currently not an open-access journal, readers can access its extensive archive and explore topics that bridge theoretical knowledge and practical application in the realm of chemical education.

Journal of Policy Research in Tourism Leisure and Events

Shaping Sustainable Futures through Research and Discourse
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1940-7963Frequency: 3 issues/year

The Journal of Policy Research in Tourism, Leisure and Events is a leading platform for scholarly discourse at the intersection of tourism, leisure studies, and event research. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, this esteemed journal, with an ISSN of 1940-7963 and E-ISSN 1940-7971, has established itself as a crucial resource for academics and practitioners alike. With a robust impact reflected in its Q2 ranking in both Geography, Planning and Development and Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Management, the journal consistently endeavors to shape policy and practice through innovative research. Covering a spectrum of topics from sustainable tourism development to the socio-economic impacts of leisure activities, the journal addresses pressing contemporary issues faced by the industry. It welcomes contributions that advance theoretical understanding and practical implications, fulfilling its objective to foster informed debates and collaborations. The journal is published in the United States and has a noteworthy presence in Scopus rankings, helping ensure that the insights shared reach a wide audience in the relevant fields.

Journal of Zoo and Aquarium Research

Advancing conservation through innovative research.
Publisher: EUROPEAN ASSOC ZOOS & AQUARIA - EAZAISSN: 2214-7594Frequency: 4 issues/year

Journal of Zoo and Aquarium Research is an esteemed publication dedicated to advancing the field of zoology and aquatic sciences. Published by the European Association of Zoos & Aquaria (EAZA), this journal provides a dynamic platform for sharing groundbreaking research, best practices, and conservation efforts within zoos and aquariums, making it an invaluable resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. With an increasing focus on the importance of biodiversity and sustainable practices, the journal is committed to fostering scholarly communication that enhances the understanding of animal care, species conservation, and habitat preservation. Although specific metrics such as impact factor and HIndex are currently unavailable, the journal's rigorous peer-review process ensures that only high-quality research is disseminated. As an open-access publication, the Journal of Zoo and Aquarium Research promotes accessibility to vital information, encouraging a broader engagement with critical issues in wildlife conservation. By addressing contemporary challenges in the field, this journal stands as a pivotal resource for those dedicated to promoting animal welfare and ecological sustainability.