edward m.kennedy institute for US senate experience and exhibit

edward m.kennedy institute for US senate experience and exhibit
images courtesy of EMK institute

opening on march 31 2015, the edward m.kennedy institute for the united states senate aims to bring the history of the delegation alive through interactive, technology-based exhibits. by immersing the visitors in the senate’s mission, work and history, the experience aims to educate, invigorate and motivate the public to become more active in their communities. the centerpiece of the establishment is a full-scale reproduction of the US senate, meaning at one time, 100 people can interact as senators by debating, negotiating and voting on legislation.

the concept, design and production of the institute is a collaboration between senator kennedy, his wife vicki reggie kennedy and experiential designer ed schlossberg of ESI design. the multi-disciplinary firm’s team harmonized the educational and social experience, offering guests an opportunity to engage with both the displays and with their fellows. each person is given a digital tablet which acts as a guide and voting tool, while they interact with the many exhibits. the devices enable visitors to create a senator-in-training profile, explore topics in greater depth, help a bill become a law, earn pins and vote on issues.

visitors can get involved in debating and voting

the experience is powered almost entirely by a digital tablet offered to every visitor

the devices can create a senator-in-training profile

the exhibits interact with the guests