Perceptions of an immersive learning experience: what do reviews of an architecture cruise reveal?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47989/ir31iConf64174Keywords:
Immersive experiences, Online reviews, Informal leisure learning, Architecture cruisesAbstract
Introduction. Immersive experiences in cultural heritage environments often involve leisure learning. We studied online reviews of an architecture cruise to explore what is communicated about the experience.
Method. Two hundred Tripadvisor cruise reviews were collected. After initial screening, 199 reviews were retained and coded by the research team for mentions about the experience and learning.
Analysis. Using both deductive and inductive coding within a storytelling framework, People (those involved in the experience), Places (including buildings and history), and Perceptions (reviewers’ affective responses) in reviews were coded. References to learning or to specific knowledge gained were also coded.
Results. People were the most reported storytelling-related category, with docents praised for their knowledge, communication style, and passion. Perceptions reflected strong emotional connections of participants. Places focused on Chicago’s architecture and history, appreciated through the city’s visual impact. Although only one-third of reviews mentioned learning, the experiential elements related to storytelling were central to how tourists expressed meaningful connections with leisure learning in cultural heritage settings.
Conclusion. Storytelling emerges as a useful lens for understanding leisure learning in cultural heritage tourism. Analysing online reviews helps identify which aspects of immersive experiences resonate with visitors and where enhancements may support more meaningful reflections.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Heather Moulaison-Sandy, Danielle Oprean, Wilson Castano
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