This experiential museum course offers an exploration of museum work through extensive site visits in Atlanta. Students will critically assess a wide range of historical and cultural institutions in Atlanta, and interact with museum professionals to better understand contemporary issues in the field.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students: In addition to completing the readings and assignments required of undergraduates, graduate students will be asked to submit a site visit evaluation for one museum site and complete a longer reflection assignment.
Athena Title
Museum Studies in Atlanta
Prerequisite
Any HIST course
Semester Course Offered
Offered summer semester every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Students will learn methods used by museum professionals to tell stories with objects.
Students will learn how to apply material culture methodologies to the study of objects.
Students will learn about museum careers through interactions with professionals in the field.
Topical Outline
During this Maymester field study program, students will attend a 9-hour workshop in Athens, followed by a week-long Atlanta field study. Students should expect to spend 30-33 hours at museum sites in Atlanta.
Overview of Museum Jobs
Discussion of types of museums
Material Culture Methods
How are Exhibitions Put Together
How to Critically Evaluate an Exhibitions
Atlanta Week
The program will focus on a broad range of museums and include meetings with staff and opportunities to view exhibits and collections. Students will be able to compare practices across institutions and learn directly from professionals in the field.
