Active Learning is more lasting and meaningful than passive learning, changing users from on-lookers to participants. To learn by doing is to own it, remember it and use it.

It is active.
Creating opportunities for learning is stronger than simply presenting information or delivering messages.

It is engaging.
Hands-on exhibits work by attracting the visitor's attention and then creating reasons to remain and explore the exhibit in depth. Slowing down the visitor allows learning to emerge.

It is accessible.
The exhibit features and content should be easily and immediately accessible by the visitor. Successful interactive exhibits require little or no instruction for participation.

It is enjoyable.
The best interactive exhibits entertain while they inform, providing the visitor with meaning as well as magic. Fun means the visitor will return.

It is immersive.
Meaningful hands-on learning goes beyond the visual to involve the whole person in a range of intellectual, emotional, physical and sensory activities. Interactive means more than touch screens.

It is inclusive.
Interactive learning is for everyone, capturing the interest of children as well as adults and families. The design of interactive exhibits should appeal to different levels of experience, with each visitor able to learn something of value.

It is open-ended.
Active learning does not end with the museum visit. Visitors should be able to take their exhibits experience and apply it more broadly to their own abilities and interests.

It is self-directed.
Interactive environments strengthen the visitor's learning by putting control in the hands of the individual and encouraging self-directed exploration. Interactive exhibits tap the visitor's own skills and knowledge to open doors to further learning.