Interact, engage, learn: the transformative impact of value co-creation on adolescents at science museums

This study investigates value co-creation in science museums, focusing on how interactive and participatory co-creation experiences impact adolescents’ learning outcomes. Utilizing the Generic Learning Outcomes (GLOs) framework, we surveyed 214 visitors aged 10–17 at the “Dada's Magic Land” exhibition and employed serial mediation analysis. Findings revealed that interactive and participatory co-creation significantly mediated the relationship between prior knowledge and GLOs (knowledge, skills, attitudes, creativity, and behavioral intentions). While prior knowledge directly influenced learning outcomes, indirect effects through co-creation pathways were more substantial. Prior knowledge also directly and indirectly affected activity behavior, attitudes, and skills. The study highlights the importance of leveraging visitors’ prior knowledge through engaging in co-creation activities in museum design. Practical implications include age-specific exhibits, diverse participatory elements, and co-creative opportunities for all knowledge levels. This research contributes to understanding how science museums can optimize learning experiences through interactive and participatory strategies and offers actionable recommendations for policy and practice.