This space was created by the Museum Education Roundtable to expand upon the most recent Journal of Museum Education (JME) issue, reflect on member events, and address timely issues that we face in the field of museum work. Read about how to write for our blog here.
Knowledge in Action ™
Confessions of a #MuseumEd Mama
If you’re a museum professional, it’s likely that you can never just visit a museum. While you’re there, you may be evaluating interactions with staff, filing away mental notes about interpretive text, or low key judging design choices in exhibitions. Like the barista who can no longer stand the smell of coffee, a unique downside of working in leisure spaces … Read More
Notes from the Field: Architecture Education in the Age of Mandates
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House in Buffalo, NY is a Prairie Style house built in 1905 for the Martin family. The Martin House looks unlike the rest in the neighborhood; it is low and long, and embraces the American Prairie’s colors. Throughout the year, school groups and families visit for tours, programs, and community days. While on site, guests learn … Read More
4×4: Strategy and Strategic Foresight with Elizabeth Merritt
Our “4 x 4” interview blog format aims to incorporate multiple perspectives on current topics in our field by inviting four thought leaders to answer four questions related to a chosen theme. Check out interviews around the first theme of “self-care” as seen through the lenses of nature, parenthood, networking, and equity work. For our next round of 4×4, we … Read More
I 💜 Museums Playlist
It’s once again that time of year in North America when we reflect on our feelings of love…for museums, right? Perhaps your feelings are actually about love in, or near, a museum, but either way, we’ve got a sweet little playlist for you to enjoy. Thanks to all who shared their favorite songs and special insights with us! 1. “Happy … Read More
JME in Action: My Top 3 for 44.4
The end of one year and the beginning of the next inevitably brings about ranked lists or photo collages on social media, news outlets, and television shows. While they can range from thoughtful to attention-seeking, this easy format offers us an annual opportunity to reflect and distill. This blog aims to capture the Top 3 things that the thematic articles … Read More
Year-End Update from the MER President
Welcoming Change in 2020 January 1, 2020 means another year, and a new decade, but for me the year always starts in September. Museum education encourages me to live by the seasons. Whether it’s the launch of the academic year, school break camps, program series, galas/fundraisers, or the fiscal year-end, our work lives contain distinct seasons, each requiring different mental … Read More
Holiday Wish List
Looking for a holiday gift idea? Or maybe an escape? Have no fear: here are a few suggestions from the MER Board for the museum lover, activist, and curious folks in your circle… or a little escape from the season if that is what you need! Here are books that have inspired us, nourished us, and helped us smile … Read More
Notes from the Field: Murder Mystery Games Bring Art to Life
Since 2012, the Dallas Museum of Art has hosted an annual Museum Murder Mystery Game, and over the years it has become one of our most popular events. If you are looking for a different way to engage your audiences, a murder mystery could be in your future! The first year, we invented a story with six characters, similar to … Read More