A Descriptive Analysis of Artificial Intelligence Usage and Opinions In Museums

Abstract

As the museum sector embraces artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for exhibits, collections, and beyond, minimal attention has been paid to the ways it is being utilized in museums, by museum staff. In this study, museum professionals were surveyed on the frequency with which they use AI tools, what tools they use and why, and their opinions on AI in museums. Responses suggest that museum staff are of two minds - either they refuse to deliberately use AI tools, or they have begun to use AI frequently. When asked about the role of AI in museum, participants were split between perceived positive applications of AI - primarily in its potential to help them be more efficient at the administrative tasks of their jobs - and concerns about ethics, the role of people regarding AI tools, and the way AI usage may impact the perception and mission alignment of museums. As these tools continue to make their way into this sector, professionals have begun to question the specific role of AI, and guidelines which they can utilize to inform the ways they use it in their work. This study suggests the museum field would benefit from field-wide general best practices for utilizing AI, especially large language models and generative AI, to ensure that museums remain trusted, value-based organizations.