Admission requirements
None.
Description
The role, function and purpose of museums in contemporary society has been the center of much debate over the past decades. This course contextualizes that debate by focusing on the history of museums, as well as key concepts and issues in museum theory and museum practice. Combining insights from different disciplines (archaeology, art history, anthropology, museum studies) students will collectively reflect on what the social role of museums and collections is (and can be).
On the one hand, the course focuses on the analysis of exhibitions as a means of communicating societal values and norms within specific socio-cultural-political contexts. On the other, the focus lies on how historical and contemporary collecting practices are related to these same historical-political conjunctures, and how process of globalization, (de)colonization, and digitalization have impacted collecting practice.
Key topics addressed include:
Museums and politics;
Museums and communities;
Museums and decolonization;
Museums and digital culture.
Course objectives
Understand the historical context in which museums came to take the shape they have now;
Gain insight into the impact of decolonization and digitization on museums in contemporary society;
Reflect on your own ideas about the role of museums in society;
Gain insight into current issues and controversies concerning museums in a global context;
Develop research and writing skills by writing a research paper.
Timetable
Course schedule details can be found in MyTimetable.
Log in with your ULCN account, and add this course using the 'Add timetable' button.
Mode of instruction
Lectures
In-class group discussion
Museum visit – if possible
Assessment method
1 paper of 2,000 words.
Assessment deadlines:
The dates of exams and retakes can be found in MyTimetable. The deadlines of papers, essays and assignments are communicated through Brightspace.
Reading list
To be announced.
Registration
Enrolment for all components of your study programme through MyStudymap is mandatory. This applies to both compulsory elements and elective credits. If you are not enrolled, you may not participate.
General information about registration can be found on the Course and exam enrolment page.
Exchange and Study Abroad students, please contact the exchange coordinator for information on how to apply.
Contact
For more information about this course, please contact Dr. M.E. (Martin) Berger (m.e.berger@arch.leidenuniv.nl).