To bridge the gap between theory and practice, decision-makers and practitioners need information delivered in ways that meet the demands of the contemporary workplace. The purpose of the program is to make information on current issues and public policies generated from both scholarly sources and reflexive practice available more broadly and in more useful formats. The long-term goal of the program is to foster innovative scholarship and expand the availability of data that has the potential to contribute to improvements in museum operations. Fellowships are awarded in all subject areas of museum theory and operations. Preference is given to studies that focus on the larger questions emerging from new social attitudes, economic conditions and technological innovations.
Dissemination can be through a variety of print and electronic media.
Fellows are expected to produce a document suitable for publication by the completion of the award period and to participate in forum discussions. Acknowledgment of the role of the Smithsonian Center for Education and Museum Studies in contributing to the resulting publication is requested. A brief final report describing the fellowship experience and its outcomes is due within six months after completing the fellowship. One fellowship is awarded annually for a period of up to 6 months. Do not bind or staple pages.