None
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 tourism and wider 21st century society.
Session 1: Introduction
Session 2: Museum and heritage interpretation
Session 3: The digital museum
Session 4: Museum audiences
Session 5: Museum management and the commercial museum
Session 6: Diversifying museum partnerships
Session 7: Museums
and Tourism
Session 8: In person (or virtual depending on COVID-19) museum visit
Session 9: Museums and economics
Session 10: Conclusion: Museums, tourism, and the future
Students are expected to read and explore at least 2 of the key texts/resources for each class. Most of the readings are available online through the links specified in this document. Material not available online will be circulated to students via Microsoft Teams and the course tutor as needed.
Alongside lectures, the course will involve museum tours, 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.
This course will be graded via a group project to be presented online after the teaching part of the course is complete. You will use the same groups and case study locations you develop during the Tourism Team Tank forum with Professor Burini. All members of each group will be awarded the same grade.
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: gemma.tully@guest.unibg.it