HIST 1355 Introduction to Museum Studies
This course examines the history of museums, archives, and collections, and the nature and variety of museum works in contemporary society. It looks at the development of American museums and their relationship to other exhibitionary forms including wild west shows and world's fairs. The course introduces students to theoretical arguments about the nature and function of cultural representations and provides an introduction to museum organization; museological theory and philosophy; concepts of museum exhibition and interpretation. It discusses how collections and objects can be used as sources of meaning and information, and how museums and numerous other institutions can be used as educational resources. Course will include case studies and applied field experiences with CWC and regional museum and repository staffs and institutions. (3 lect.)
Major Topics
- History and philosophy of exhibitions, museums, archives, collections.
- Nature and variety of museum work in contemporary society.
- Museum organization, theory and philosophy.
- Concepts of museum operations.
- Use of museums and collections as educational resources.
Outcomes
In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:
1. Critique the historical development and variety of museums, archives, and collections. Assessment may include class discussion, presentations, writing assignments or tests.
2. Critically examine the nature and variety of museum work in contemporary society. Assessment may include class discussion, presentations, writing assignments or tests.
3. Research (self-guided and directed) and communicate the rationales for museum organization, theory, and philosophy. Assessment may include class discussion, presentations, writing assignments or tests.
4. Compare and evaluate the concepts of museum operations and the use of museums and collections as educational resources. Assessment may include class discussion, presentations, writing assignments or tests.
5. Utilize appropriate research and presentation technologies as mandated by requirements of the course during classes, workshops, and presentations.