Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Museum Study: What Does That Mean in Today's World

The docent not only taught students about
Mayan culture, but exemplified terrific
storytelling as well. 
What does it mean to visit a museum today?

How can we use a museum visit to educate and inspire children?

First, it's best if the visit is focused, in part, to a current learning/teaching topic.

Next, it's also great to give students time to explore what the museum has to offer.

Museums are also part of our culture, and it's important that students learn how to interact with a museum with appropriate behavior and a matching learning mindset. I will promote the following behaviors/mindsets.
  • Visiting a museum is like visiting another country, take the time to look, listen, and understand the culture and organization of the museum. 
  • Think about the objects, exhibits, and presentations that inspire you at the museum, and when you get back to school or home, research more information about exhibits. 
  • Listen to the docent; he/she has studied well to share information with you.
  • Read the information available and ask questions.
  • Discuss what you see and hear with your classmates. 
  • A museum is a public place so use your "public place" behavior:
    • Stay with your group.
    • Don't use public bathrooms alone.
    • Speak politely.
    • Resect other visitors' privacy.
    • Don't run, roughhouse, or yell.
    • Treat all museum objects and utilities with respect and care. 
    • The exhibits educated students
      and captured their imaginations.
    • Don't touch fragile objects.
A museum is a great place to learn. Enjoy your time there and bring back questions and topics to study more. If you really like the museum, you may want to encourage your family to bring you there for another visit.