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 ™
MER Responds: November 3, 2020
The Museum Education Roundtable (MER) Board of Directors believes in the importance of democracy, the ongoing work of building a healthy and equitable society, and the responsibility of all cultural organizations–including museums–to strengthen civic participation and public engagement. While international in scope, many MER members, contributors, and Board Members live and work in the United States, and are actively engaged … Read More
MER Responds
The Museum Education Roundtable stands alongside those protesting violence against Black people in Minneapolis and around the country. Museum educators are bridges to and producers of cultural knowledge. We care for our communities intellectually but also emotionally, socially, and physically. As such, we have a responsibility to address structural injustice, oppression, racism, and abuses of power. Museums are not neutral, … Read More
Museum Education Roundtable: Now Recruiting
As we move into the summer, the Museum Education Roundtable (MER) is once again recruiting candidates to join the board of directors. Yet this year has been anything but typical. We recognize that for many museum education professionals, the COVID-19 crisis has upended career trajectories. For some, this is understandably a time to limit additional responsibilities and focus on health, … Read More
MER Talks: Autism Acceptance Month
The beginnings of Autism Awareness Month date back to 1970 when the Autism Society of America lobbied for nation-wide recognition for people with autism. In 2007, the United Nations declared April 2nd “World Autism Awareness Day.” There is no doubt that efforts like these formalized days on the calendar, the ‘light it up blue’ campaign and the puzzle-piece ribbon, have … 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
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
MER Talks: This Blog Post Might be Banned
In June 2019, the Wisconsin Maritime Museum celebrated Pride Month for the first time. In the small northeastern Wisconsin town of Manitowoc, we flew a rainbow flag outside of the Museum. We added a rainbow filter to our Facebook banner image. We also celebrated with a program: Pride and Patriotism. This panel discussion featured three LGBTQ+ veterans who shared their … Read More