ABSTRACT
This chapter compares two prompting conditions with a control condition. Prompted engagement is expected to increase reading of text material associated with the artwork. Prompting visitor attention can lead to both an immediate response and a subsequent response. The chapter examines two aspects of the visitor attention-value theory. Being able to choose high-interest objects to view and to ignore others suggests the selective nature of visitor attention in museums. There is evidence consistent with the notion that as number of alternative choices increases, visitors become more selective and view a smaller proportion of objects available. Rounds relates the curiosity-driven museum visitor's decision-making to optimal foraging theory, suggesting decision-making rules for searching, handling, and quitting that might explain how visitors select exhibit elements to which to attend. The chapter shows that visitors are likely to experience a feeling of immersion if they are encouraged by a text prompting them to imagine themselves in a particular time and place.
