The objective of this course is to introduce students to the general principles of museum communication and program development. Topics covered include human development, communication and motivation, teaching and learning in museums, educational programming, interpretive programming, audience research, museum education and the Internet. During Fall 2000 we have included a visit to the National Museums in Ottawa to meet with various professionals working in education and interpretive programs and considered interpretive strategies for an exhibition of Scientific Instruments. The internship, taken between the first and second year of enrollment, is a 12-week placement in a recognized museum, gallery or related institution. It is an integral part of the curriculum, intended to reinforce knowledge gained in first-year course work and to apply it to museum situations.
Students design their placements with their individual career goals and interests in mind.
Previous internships have included placements in institutions and organizations in Canada, United States, England, France, and Australia. Each student internship is supported in part by the Vivian and David Campbell Scholarship . The purpose of the Research Paper is to provide an opportunity for the student to complete an independent investigation of a museological topic. The paper will demonstrate that the student is capable of pursuing and communicating research that represents a significant and original contribution to museum studies. The paper will address a major question, concept or hypothesis.