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Dr Jessica Hoare

(she/her)

Academic

Publication

2020

2018

Articles

Conferences

Biography

I am interested in understanding the role of innovative technologies in cultural experiences. As a researcher and museum professional, I have examined the challenges and opportunities inherent in the adoption of new technologies, as well as the forms of value attached to the experience of the past and the development of new methods for engaging with the lived experience of heritage.My doctoral research developed a methodology for understanding the affective experiences of visitors at heritage sites and examined the efficacy and ethics of using physiological monitoring to understand visitor experience.   

I have worked at the intersection of the heritage and cultural sector and technology since 2013 and have collaborated with leading public institutions across the UK, including Tate Liverpool, Liverpool Biennial, Nesta, National Trust, Arts Council England, Arts Council Wales, National Theatre Wales, the Guardian, the British Council, numerous universities, ONS, Open Data UK, and Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales. As Programme Manager at Nesta, I ran the Digital Innovation Fund for Wales on behalf of the Welsh Government. I held an ESRC Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data. As Digital Innovation Lead at Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales, I led the development of a strategic approach to technologies that centred on brokering collaborations and leveraging XR technologies to meet the access needs of specific disabled groups. 

Relatedly, I have lived experience of disability and a developing interest in undertaking research that supports the creative and cultural industries to adopt employment practices that prioritise dignity and inclusion by improving processes related to access needs and preferences.  I currently sit on the Advisory Board for South West Museum Development and act as the board’s EDI lead. In this role, I have supported museums of varying size and organisational structure to improve access across the remit of their work.