Investigating the blind and visually impaired visitors' experience at St John's Co-Cathedral, Malta

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the museum experience of St John鈥檚 Co-Cathedral, Valletta, Malta, for blind and visually impaired visitors. To understand the current tourism product offered by St John鈥檚 Church and Museum, the research methodology used is of a qualitative nature. The readiness of St John鈥檚 Co-Cathedral Church and Museum was investigated how blind and visually impaired visitors are accommodated. A qualitative methodology was applied, using ethnographic and case study elements. This study examines, as an ethnography, the lived experiences of the blind and visually impaired visitors at St John鈥檚, through interviews, observations, and participation. St John鈥檚 corporate approach of its Church and Museum, towards the blind and visually impaired visitors is analysed in a case study setting, aiming to discover potential gaps between theory and practice. The aspect of a case study included semi-structured interviews with staff and clergy, observations on the work floor, participation as a sighted visitor, content analysis of the museum鈥檚 website and brochures, its website accessibility for the blind and visually impaired, while other matters such as accessibility issues, the tactile environment, on-site audio guides, and assistive technologies were assessed too. The findings shed light on the needs of the blind and visually impaired visitors and the current state of St John鈥檚 Museum preparedness, while offering recommendations for enhancing accessibility, ensuring equitable engagement for all visitors of St John鈥檚 Co-Cathedral.