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University Natural History Museums: The Public Education Mission
Author(s) -
Macfadden Bruce J.,
Camp Betty Dunckel
Publication year - 2000
Publication title -
curator: the museum journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.312
H-Index - 8
eISSN - 2151-6952
pISSN - 0011-3069
DOI - 10.1111/j.2151-6952.2000.tb00008.x
Subject(s) - exhibition , natural history , natural (archaeology) , state (computer science) , museum informatics , informal education , work (physics) , natural resource , library science , political science , informal learning , public relations , higher education , museology , sociology , visual arts , engineering , history , archaeology , art , ecology , computer science , law , mechanical engineering , algorithm , biology
University‐based natural history museums are specialized cultural institutions that serve diverse constituencies. On one hand, these museums promote scientific research and collections through the work of curators and students and must advance the universities' missions. On the other hand, they must provide exhibition and public programs for the local community, or if they are a state museum, serve the citizens of the entire state through these activities. The challenge for university‐based natural history museums is to achieve a balance among their activities and services, given available resources. In the twenty‐first century, university natural history museums must further adapt by promoting social awareness of topics such as biodiversity and fostering learning in informal and formal settings. The Florida Museum of Natural History, an official State museum located at the University of Florida, is a prime example of a comprehensive university museum with a broad spectrum of programs that promote and enhance learning activities.