Combining Grounded Theory (GT) and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to analyze indoor soundscape in historical spaces

Abstract

This paper reports the findings of indoor soundscape research that was conducted in a historical museum setting. The study took place in the historic caravanserai of Cengelhan, which is currently a part of the Rahmi Koc Museum. A combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods were used to capture visitors’ subjective museum experience and understand the role of the sound environment. In this sense, the research is divided into two parts: Grounded Theory (GT) and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). For the qualitative part, semi-structured interviews were held as part of GT, to create a conceptual framework that reflects visitors’ perception of the indoor soundscape of the museum. Hypotheses were derived from this conceptual framework based on the patterns between the categories of the conceptual model. In the second part, this model was tested for statistical significance and path correlations through the SEM method. The core categories of the conceptual framework are similar to the previous research, mainly the categories of Context, Interpretation, and Outcomes. The SEM analysis showed that categories of Expectation and Preference were not significantly associated with the Built or Sound Environment. Findings showed that a positive interpretation of the sound environment could create a livable environment with a unique atmosphere which would increase visitors’ interaction with the museum and positively affect their experience.