SMUS 575 - Science Museum Methods 3 s.h.

In communicating with the public, museums tell stories and convey emotions. It is well known that this is what best engages audiences. In disciplines like art or history, stories and emotions are part and parcel of the content but doing this in the context of science entails an additional challenge, as the scientific process and paper publishing follow completely different approaches. Museum professionals who will deal with scientific exhibitions and with scientists as the source of content need to be experts on this topic in order to make sure that audiences’ expectations are met. This course will explore this challenge, unpacking the reasons behind it and placing science museums in the context of various other “languages” used to tell stories and convey emotions. Students will apply these insights to the analysis of a science exhibition of their choice. Offered every spring semester.
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor and the director is required for students not enrolled in CGP.