In his book, "Identity and the Museum Visitor Experience," John Falk makes the case that by understanding the underlying motivations that drive a visitor, a museum can create an experience that reflects a person's identity and therefore satisfy their motivation for visiting. According to Falk, this level of personal connection increases…

This "blueprint for the future," a statement of affirmation and aspiration, centers on five guiding principles for the federal Office of Museum Services (OMS) within the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMS), with some specific steps for putting the principles into action. The blueprint speaks of the Institute of Museum and…

Describes and explains the rationale for establishing a program in higher education that would support and interact with the community of institutions and individuals involved in informal or nonformal science education. Outlines a number of research questions proposed at a recent meeting of informal science educators. (DDR)

Parallel to the primary, secondary, postsecondary, and adult/community education sectors is education not associated with formal programs--learning in arts and cultural sites. The emergence of cultural and educational tourism is an opportunity for adult/community education to define itself by extending lifelong learning opportunities into parallel…

The museum's potential as a lifelong learning resource has increased as a result of changing perspectives of the museum's role and the importance of museum education. Advances in storage, retrieval, and display technology such as videodiscs and compact discs permit more dynamic and accessible educational opportunities in museums. (SK)

Suggests that, despite difficulties in obtaining funding, more Native American tribes are considering opening their own museums as a result of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (1990). Describes methods for attaining funds, forming collections, and training museum staff. (AJL)

Discusses how cultural centers improve minority college students' lives by enhancing ethnic pride and closing the gap between cultures. Emphasizes the need for centers to keep minority students in college. Explains that faculty members are hesitant to be associated with these centers because association can limit their career options. (JS)

Women have always been a part of history, but society has not always recognized their contributions. History textbooks, for example, largely portray women as passive bystanders in the world's events, with fewer than 11 percent of textbook images and references devoted to specific women. A U.S. Congressional Resolution designated March as Women's…

The director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian discusses the museum's mission to interpret Native American cultures from the perspectives of Native peoples; nontraditional uses of an associated cultural resources facility; the relationship between Native world views and universal values; and programmatic impact on Native…

The report discusses the Ford Foundation's support for the arts in the United States since 1981. The premise upon which the Foundation provides such support is that the arts provide an immediate and intense means of communication, both in the present and across the centuries. A potent reflector and interpreter of values, art illuminates the…

Reflects on the meaning of cultural education and activity in France as inspired by the need to establish a new form of cultural dialogue between France and the people of other countries. Problems related to financing cultural activities, reaching various types of audience, and methodology are discussed. (AMH)

Describes the speaker's lifelong dedication to the development of education in museums and his philosophy of life. Points out the need to make museums effective educational institutions closely integrated in a community's fabric and structure. (CW)

Museums, libraries, zoos, parks, historical sites, and other cultural institutions can be vehicles for much self-directed learning. This article reviews these opportunities and efforts to utilize them. It discusses cultural institutions as invitational environments, conditions of learning in cultural institutions, and tools and initiatives for…

The advantages of visiting points of interest close to home or more distant travel to provide stimulating experiences for gifted children are considered. Ideas for making history, literature, nature, science, and the arts interesting are suggested, including materials, books, and music that can be explored in conjunction with the tours. (SEW)

Discusses the period of transition and self examination of the museology of science. Defines the main issues and limits of the museum as a means of transmitting a scientific culture and scientific ways. (Author/RT)