FROM CULTURAL DECLINE TO DIGITAL SUSTAINABILITY: A USER-CENTERED MOBILE LEARNING APPROACH FOR ENGAGING MILLENNIALS IN INTANGIBLE HERITAGE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35631/JTHEM.1143035Keywords:
Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), Mobile Learning, User-Centered Design (UCD)Abstract
Against the backdrop of rapid digital modernization and generational disengagement, the preservation and transmission of cultural heritage face increasingly severe challenges. The growing disconnection between Mianzhu Wood Block New Year Paintings and the experiences of millennials raises urgent concerns about sustainable preservation and transmission. This study explores how user-centered mobile learning approaches can address cultural disengagement and promote long-term learner engagement with cultural heritage. A sequential mixed-methods approach was employed in this research including a systematic literature review (SLR) using CiteSpace, semi-structured interviews with cultural heritage experts, perceptual analysis of millennial users based on the Kano model, and usability testing of a WeChat Mini Program prototype based on PACMAD metrics. Findings indicate that digitization enhances cultural engagement when design moves beyond visual presentation to interpretive storytelling, multimodal interaction, and contextual learning. Kano model analysis shows that cultural explanation and intuitive navigation are Must-be requirements, while community participation, task-based exploration and symbolic comparison are important performance drivers. Attractive features such as gamification and audio guidance improve user satisfaction and memorability. Usability evaluations further demonstrate that the mini program is highly learnable. These findings further confirm the Wechat Mini Program's significant potential for wider adoption. The results also highlight the importance of millennials as a pivotal group for cultural heritage sustainable development. Their digital fluency enables them to drive cultural regeneration.
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