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Education and learning

There is no doubt that a primary role of museums is to engage and educate the community.  Museum exhibits inspire interest in an area of study, item, time period, or an idea. Galleries are becoming classrooms, and not just for children. Even the museums themselves have interesting histories to inspire and educate visitors (Art Fund, 2019). It becomes nearly impossible to exit a museum without having gained any information or insight during your visit. Even after your visit you may find yourself inspired to find out more about it. There is a wealth of information on the internet, in libraries and book shops.

'Art is not always about pretty things. It's about who we are, what happened to us and how our lives are affected.'

Elizabeth Broun, former director of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Renwick Gallery in Washington, D.C.

Museums are examples of informal learning environments, which means they are devoted primarily to informal education which is a lifelong process whereby individuals acquire attitudes, values, skills, knowledge, problem-solving and resilience from daily experience and the educative influences and resources in his or her environment.  

Challenge

A single visit to a museum can expose visitors to in-depth information on a subject, and the nature of the museum environment is one in which you can spend as much or as little time as you like exploring exhibits (Art Fund, 2019). The environment allows you to form your own unique experiences and take away information that interests you. They can challenge you to use creative, critical, reflective and analytical thinking. 

The factors that visiting a museum or gallery can help you develop your own sense of:

1. Curiosity: Museums often house a diverse range of artefacts and exhibits from different cultures, periods, and disciplines. Exploring these exhibits can spark curiosity about history, science, art, and more. Museums encourage visitors to ask questions, seek information, and delve into the stories behind each display. This encourages a sense of curiosity by exposing individuals to new and unfamiliar concepts.
2. Imagination: Art galleries, in particular, showcase a variety of artistic styles and interpretations. Viewing abstract or unconventional artworks can stimulate the imagination and encourage individuals to think creatively. Museums often present historical reconstructions, dioramas, or interactive exhibits that transport visitors to different times and places. Engaging with these exhibits prompts the use of imagination to envision the past or future.
3. Adaptability: Temporary exhibitions in museums frequently introduce new themes or perspectives. Adapting to these changing displays requires an openness to different ideas and a willingness to explore unfamiliar territory. Museums may employ evolving technologies, such as virtual reality or interactive installations, challenging visitors to adapt to new forms of presentation and engagement.
4. Creativity: Exposure to diverse artworks, artefacts, and historical contexts can inspire creative thinking. Artists often draw inspiration from various cultures and historical periods to create innovative and unique pieces. Some museums organise workshops or events where visitors can participate in hands-on activities. Engaging in these activities supports creativity by allowing individuals to express themselves through art or interactive projects.