Museums and Digital Media

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Within the span of just a few decades, digital technologies have made a profound impact on museums: from how they operate to how the visitor experience is constructed. With an emphasis on interpretation and outreach, this course will explore the impact of technology on museum approaches to collections, exhibitions, and education. A variety of digital media platforms will be covered, including websites, social media, in-gallery interactives, and mobile experiences. We will immerse ourselves in key issues that guide and frustrate the successful implementation of technology in 21st century institutions, such as openness, collaboration, sustainability, and a focus on the museum audience as user. With the help of case studies, guest speakers, and field trips to local museums, we will explore what's possible—and what’s challenging—when it comes to museums and technology.