However, my investigation revealed a sixth characteristic, the environment of the art museum, to be an important benefit of docenting. One aspect of this characteristic was the serenity derived from the atmosphere in the museum. Another way that the art museum environment and the artwork contained within contributed to the older adults was by providing visual, mental, and spiritual growth and stimulation. This study suggests there are several benefits of the activity of art museum docent to older adults. My review of literature revealed that little research exists pertaining to the benefits of docenting.
Findings suggest, in particular, that the importance of the environment can use further study.
This study examined the most recent ethics policies of the American Association of Museums, the Association of Art Museum Directors and the International Council of Museums in relation to the current discovery of looted art in United States art museums. Ethics policies were analyzed to determine how the policies guide museums currently dealing with claims against their collection and prevent the acquisition of looted art in the future. In addition, three professionals knowledgeable about looted art were interviewed to determine the perception of the adequate or inadequate nature of the policies. Both the policy analysis and interviews revealed the ethics policies to be vague. Interview subjects made recommendations to be included in future policies.