Anthropology Museum Studies

Catalog description

Introduction to the history, significance, and operation of anthropology museums. ANTH 480 Museum Studies (3) This course introduces students to the operation of anthropology museums and to the growing field of museum studies. The course explores the historical setting within which these institutions evolved and the role of museums in the development of anthropology. Students will learn about the primary functions of museums through individual and group projects. Other topics to be covered include museum organization and administration, collection management, curation and conservation, research and education, public relations and financing, and ethical and legal issues. Students will get hands-on experience with the planning and implementation of a display in the Matson Museum of Anthropology. In addition, students will learn about museum careers, museum developments in other countries, and contemporary controversies, such as repatriation and the shifting role of museums in contemporary society. The course will provide the student with an introduction not only to the behind-the-scenes nuts-and-bolts of daily museum operations but also to the institutional role of museums as the preservers, interpreters, and communicators of humanity's cultural heritage. Students are evaluated based on two papers, work on Matson Museum exhibits, and participation in class discussions. This course fulfills a 3-credit requirement for additional courses for the anthropology major. This course expands on the history of anthropology and professional employment in the field that is presented in introductory courses.