None
Key objectives
This class will provide a general overview of the current context of museum studies in relation
to the global tourism industry. The class will consider historical understandings of museums
and the development of the contemporary museum sector. It will demonstrate how museums
are increasingly being perceived as tools for social and economic development, analysing the
benefits and problems that this brings. Students will learn ways of understanding different
types of museum value, and how these may be captured - in both qualitative and quantitative
terms - in order to inform decision-making that promotes the long-term sustainability of the
museum resource and its relevance to 21st century society.
Introduction.
Museum and heritage interpretation.
The digital museum.
Museum audiences.
Museum management and the commercial museum.
Diversifying museum partnerships.
Museums and tourism.
Museum visit.
Museums and economics.
Conclusion: Museums, tourism, and the future.
Ambrose, T. and Paine, C. 2012. Museum Basics (3rd Edition). London:
Routledge.
Simmons, J.E. 2016. Museums: A History. Lanham, MD: Rowman and
Littlefield
Learning methods
Alongside traditional lectures, the course will involve trips, discussions, brainstorming and
practical activities linked to each session. No former museum or tourism experience is
required but students should be willing to share their perceptions and experiences from
personal engagement with theses sectors of society.
Assignment
There is one assignment due after completion of the taught course. Please write a 2000 word
essay answering one of the following questions.
1 – Identify and discuss 3 ways museum collections can be made more effective (for
example: increasing use of digital tools, expanding your audience, new display methods,
improved object care, greater public participation, better branding and merchandising and so
on). Please include a range of museum theory, examples/case studies and relevant policy
documents of good practice, which support your arguments.
2 – What is the future of museums? Build on your knowledge of trends in museums and
tourism to outline how you think museums will change within the next twenty years. Please
note that there is no right or wrong answer to this question but you will need to use museum
theory, best practice and innovative case studies to support your arguments.
Note: Reference are not included in the word count.
Contact details
Students are encouraged to contact Dr Gemma Tully directly if they have any problems or are
unable to attend lectures. Please use the following email: gemmatully@hotmail.com