This module presents an overview of the museum profession and museum governance. In addition to specialized roles, such as curating and interpreting collections, collections management, and audience development, many other activities are fundamental to the running of a twenty-first century museum, including management, marketing, and visitor services. Museum roles draw on a wide range of disciplines and require a variety of expertise and skills. Underpinned by interdisciplinary research and scholarship, museum practice is also informed by developments in museum theory, sector standards, guidelines, and discussions, as well as professional alliances and creative partnerships.
This module covers the following topics:
Museums share similarities with other cultural, educational, and public sectors.
MoreA wide range of specialist skills and expertise are needed to support core museum activities. As a result, many new or enhanced museum professions have emerged in recent decades, including exhibition designers, online collections and digital resource developers, and a range of visitor service roles.
MoreRegardless of a museum’s size, the key contribution of its governing body is to make, implement, and review decisions about the museum’s day-to-day management and future direction.
MoreCollaboration is a core competency for those working in museums, and an activity that shapes both internal practice and public delivery. Collaboration across museum departments is necessary to produce exhibitions and engage audiences effectively.
MoreMuseum practice involves very different types of expertise and training. The following sections present key platforms and sources that inform, shape, and further standards within the museum sector.
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