Conferences and Lecture Series Archive

Reimagining Engagement: Emerging Opportunities for Museums and Audiences

The evolution of computing technologies and the rise of the Internet have impacted the world of museums in ways few might have imagined possible—computers in the galleries transformed the on-site experience, global audiences emerged, collections information became readily accessible, and membership programs flourished.

Technology has also helped redefine the relationship between the museum and its audience.  New technologies (i.e. iPod, iPhone) that allow greater individual control over and customization of information have led to a redefinition of roles that now allows museum audiences to play a part in the documentation and interpretation of collections, the development of exhibitions, and in the way gallery space is utilized.

Reimagining Engagement will examine how recent developments—the rise of social networking technologies, the evolution of hybrid models of the virtual and traditional museum, the potential of cell phones to extend student learning, and a call for heightened visitor “participation” in museums—are building on earlier technological innovations and are ushering in substantive changes that will allow audiences to assume new roles within the museum.

MSP 2010 Capstone Presentations