Art museums have been recognized as sources for curriculum development but one of the museum's weakest areas is in its relationships with people, particularly with adults and adolescents. Examines characteristics of the population, changing patterns of housing, the influence of senior citizens and adolescents, museum manager influence and…

Presents a description of the Naturalist Center of the Smithsonian Institution's Museum of Natural History. This is a center where curious people cna come to "piddle" with specimens. (MDR)

Examples are given of some types of interaction between viewed and museum provided by an experimental computer based nutrition exhibit at the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry. Plans are being developed for a museum in which most of the information conveyed will appear through the use of video systems tied to a computer. (CMV)

Reports on the planning, development, and operation of Planet Ocean, an ocean-science museum in Miami, Florida sponsored by the International Oceanographic Foundation. (CP)

Asserts that lack of adequate training, costs in time, and the image of anthropology as a science are reasons why simulated field experiences offer promising alternatives to the risks of field work based on inadequate training in anthropology. Discusses class observation of unnarrated films, the use of classmates and visiting members of a…

Venturi and Rauch's addition to the Allen Art Museum at Oberlin College is in two separate parts: a loft that houses new facilities for the art department and a gallery for contemporary art. (Author/MLF)

Argues that museums, as public educational institutions, must meet the challenge of educating the public, specifically by planning for education that focuses on the pressing issues and problems of people's lives. States that museums must educate for public responsibility, and discusses the ethical and educational imperatives that guide public…

Numerous private and government-run science museums and centers work actively with schools to provide hands-on experience and bolster science curricula. According to a recent Association of Science and Technology Centers report, 88 percent of science museums say they plan their education programs jointly with school personnel, and 57 percent have…

Reviews the purposes and programs of the Extensions Division of the Department of Education of a metropolitan museum. Surveys services provided to schools. Gives a sample lesson plan. Highlights thematic exhibitions at the museum. Considers education by means of the art object as the primary goal of the Extensions Division. (CW)

A recently opened Dutch maritime museum makes information on its exhibits and reserve collections available to visitors via a computerized information system, which uses library computer software and videodisks to provide both textual and pictorial information on objects. Bibliographic information is also available on the museum library's…

An "agreement in principle" outlines a plan for the transfer of the art collections owned by the Norton Simon Foundation and the Norton Simon Art Foundation to UCLA, which would assume responsibility for operating the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, where much of the art is now exhibited. (MLW)

The first of a three-part series on teaching about photography, this article argues that photography is significantly different from drawing and painting and that the differences should be highlighted so that photography can be appreciated for what it uniquely offers. The concepts treated are selectivity, instantaneity, and credibility. (JDH)

Cites results from a March 1983 inquiry sent to provincial archives and museums in the 10 provinces and two territories to learn the extent to which Canadian archives and museums have preserved memorabilia and records relating to elementary and secondary schools. Notes creditable efforts but sees room for improvement. (BRR)

Museum education is becoming more popular. For example, since 1967, in British Columbia the number of museums conducting educational programs has gone from zero to 85. Discussed are many aspects of museum education, including teaching methods, how teachers can use museums creatively, and how students learn in museums. (RM)

This listing was compiled to assist teachers in preparing students of all ages and abilities for class visits to their local museum. It can be helpful in the planning, implementation, and use of museum education programs. (RM)