Yiqi Shen

Yiqi's doctoral research examines the role of digital narratives in shaping visitors’ emotional and affective engagement with cultural heritage.

Digital Narratives and Affective Engagement with Cultural Heritage—A Comparative Study of Museum Contexts in New Zealand and China

Originally from China, Yiqi Shen completed a Bachelor’s degree in Paleontology before pursuing an MA in Cultural Heritage Management at the University of Sheffield, United Kingdom. During her studies, she gained three years of practical experience in a natural history museum and was involved in museum exhibitions, visitor interpretation, and digital heritage projects. Her Master’s dissertation examined the impact of virtual museum tours on public engagement.

Yiqi is currently undertaking a PhD in Museum and Heritage Studies at the Stout Research Centre, Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington. Her doctoral research examines the role of digital narratives in shaping visitors’ emotional and affective engagement with cultural heritage within museum contexts. Through a comparative study of museums in New Zealand and China, her research explores how digital narratives shape visitors’ engagement with cultural heritage across different cultural settings. It seeks to contribute to contemporary discussions of digital heritage interpretation and the development of more meaningful and culturally responsive museum experiences.

Contact: yiqi.shen@vuw.ac.nz.