MuseumEducation/Interpretation

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Students will be active participants in learning about museum education theory and practice. This course situates the functions of museum education and interpretation within the broader context of a changing paradigm in museums, one that gives more emphasis to the visitor's experience. During site visits to area art museums, students will hear educators discuss aspects of interpretation, programming, and research that are unique to their museum. Class discussion will include issues such as new approaches to interpretation, visitor learning in art museums, education programming for varied audiences, building audiences and community, and the relationship of mission to education and interpretation. A group project will allow students to put into practice elements of education programming.