Museums have traditionally been able to stimulate young appetites for science where schools often fall short. During her tenure as curator, she has also seen scientists and museum directors developing innovative ways to introduce new concepts-video and interactive media, for example. The CMNHcollections are very specimen-oriented. Dawson, however, looks less favorably on the emerging trend in museums to create an entertaining rather than an educational environment. She believes that museums should challenge their visitors to think in new ways, not simply play games with them.
People can go anywhere to throw a ball.
People are genuinely interested in our collections. But we need to show them just how exciting these collections really are.