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 ™
CreatiVets Veteran Art Program in Partnership with the Dallas Museum of Art
Not only is Texas the second-largest state, it is also home to the second-largest veteran community in the country. As of 2018, more than 1.5 million veterans live in Texas, with approximately a quarter residing in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The transition to civilian life can be difficult, especially for those coping with service-related trauma. Artistic expression is particularly effective … Read More
Towards Museum Inclusion: Reflections from Exploratorium STARS internship program
“A STARS Program Was Born” By Sal Bell Alper (they/them) In 2020, while the Exploratorium was closed I was faced with the question of how to expand the equity focus of our museum education work without visitors or exhibits. This led me to ask questions about what was really needed and what was possible at the time. Eventually I focused … Read More
Social Media, Facilitation, and Rapid Response Collecting: Queer Appalachia’s Approach to Activism and Community Building
Introduction Bryn Kelly was a good artist. Her pieces appeared in the New Museum as well as several galleries and other art institutions. Unfortunately, she was never adequately compensated for this work, which factored into financial hardship. Bryn’s situation was further compounded by being an HIV-positive transwoman. In 2016, she died from suicide. The project Queer Appalachia began as a … Read More
Banned Books: Museums and Libraries Respond
In October, author Kelly Yang received notification that a parent had filed a complaint about the use of her book, Front Desk, in a school’s curriculum. The parent deemed the book propaganda, and believed the school was teaching racism by including the book in an anti-racism curriculum. Front Desk, an award-winning middle-grade novel, follows 10-year-old Mia Tang and her parents … 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
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
Notes from the Field: Reflections on MER’s 2019 Forum
Just over a month ago, MER Board of Directors met in St. Louis for our annual retreat and forum for local museum educators. Each year, when choosing the theme, we take stock of current trends in the field and how they intersect with local conversations/issues. On August 6, 2019, the MER Forum hosted educators for a panel/workshop called Museums as … Read More