Open Minds at The Rooms: Learning in a Gallery/Museum/Archives Complex

• In Event: 35.082 - Roundtable Session 14
  In Roundtable Session: 35.082-21 - Aesthetic and Cultural Learning in Museums and Public Spaces

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of a week long curriculum-based, interdisciplinary program situated in a community based gallery, museum, and archives complex in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada. To understand the impact of the program on students and teaching practice, Phase One involved an on-line survey of students, teachers, parents and parent volunteers, and a focus group with teachers. Phase One showed that the benefits of experiential student learning and the arts included the promotion of observation and reflection. The learning involved both cognitive and affective components. Also there was a powerful impact on teacher practice. Phase Two will narrow the focus to assess the impact of the program on student engagement with core curricular areas and provincial program goals.

Authors

• Heather Skye McLeod, Memorial University

• J R Anderson, Memorial University