MUSL500 - FALL2019 Syllabus
MUSL500 - FALL2019 Syllabus
MUSL500 - FALL2019 Syllabus
Coleman,
Fall 2019 MLIS, Ph.D.
lsc64@drexel.edu
In this course, we will explore the history of museums and their role in society. What are the various types of museums
(art, history, science and natural history, cultural, ethnographic, etc.), how did they evolve, and how have their functions changed
over time? How have different philosophies of the museum been shaped by shifting societal values, economic factors, and trends
in technology? What do museums regard as their primary mission today? Through readings, case studies, and visits to local
institutions, students will develop an understanding of the history and theory of the museum from the 18th century to the present,
with special attention paid to the major issues surrounding contemporary museum practice.
Learning Objectives:
• Explain the history and function of various types of museums
• Discuss recent shifts in the theory and philosophy of the museum and its role in society
• Understand the issues and challenges pressing on current museum practice—including audience development, changes in
technology, economies, and market forces
• Approach any museum collection or exhibition with a critical eye
• Develop a cogent written analysis
Course Structure:
• This course is 10 weeks in length and runs from September 23 to December 8, 2019. The first week is an introduction to the
course, and the tenth week is a conclusion to the course. The six lessons of the course will be covered during weeks two
through nine.
• Each week begins on a Monday and ends on the following Sunday. This means that you must complete all readings for each
week by Saturday and be prepared to dialogue online with your peers throughout the week.
• Please review the course syllabus thoroughly to learn about specific course outcomes and requirements.
• Refer to the separate course bibliography for a comprehensive list of readings for this course. Please pay special attention to
which readings are due when.
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FALL TERM 2019
Assignments
This course is designed to provide opportunities for students to improve their reading and writing – with a focus on
expository and analytical assignments.
Assignments (Graduate):
Active Participation in Discussion Boards 100 Points
Week 1 What is a Museum? Course Introductions
Week 2 The Rise of European Museums
Week 3 National Museums in Europe
Week 4 The Founding of American Museums
Week 5 The Growth of American Museums
Week 6 Asian Museums
Week 7 Museums in India & the Middle East
Week 8 Colonial/Post-Colonial Museums
Week 9 Post-Modernism & the New Museology
Week10 The Future of Museums
1. Genoways, H.H. & Andrei, M.A. (2008). Museum Origins: Readings in Early Museum History and Philosophy.
Walnut Creek, CA: Left Coast Press.
1. Bennett, T. (1995). The Birth of the Museums: history, theory, politics. New York, NY: Routledge.
Technology Requirements. In order to fully participate in this class, you will need regular access to a computer and the Internet.
A substantial portion of our readings will be made available via the Course Reserves tab in Blackboard. Each week, please check
the reserves for additional readings. I recommend printing and placing in a 5 inch, three-ring binder. Yes, we will fill the binder by
the end of the course!
Technical Difficulties?
Reach out to me ASAP - I have 4 years experience in a fast-paced IT Helpdesk and I'm rather techy!
Expectations Regarding Class Participation. This will be a highly participatory course. Students are expected to complete all
readings, participate actively in the online portions of the course, as well as during museum visits. Discussion and active
participation are expected each week that the course is in session.
Academic Policies
All students should be familiar with policies pertaining to graduate students at Drexel. Please consult the following websites:
http://www.drexel.edu/graduatecollege/
http://www.drexel.edu/graduatecollege/forms-policies/policies/
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FALL TERM 2019