Date of Graduation
Winter 12-15-2018
Document Access
Project/Capstone - Global access
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Museum Studies
College/School
College of Arts and Sciences
Department/Program
Museum Studies
First Advisor
Marjorie Schwarzer
Second Advisor
John Zarobell
Abstract
In this capstone project, I advocate for adding makerspaces to art museum education programming. I review the foundational educational concepts of a makerspace which help explain why it is a modern strategy to increasing visitor learning. This includes John Dewey’s theories of experience and education, Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory, George Hein’s studies of museum visitor behavior, and the physiological science of learning. I then propose four key terms essential for visitor learning, and explain how makerspaces successfully incorporate them. The four key terms are: 1. multiple intelligences, 2. direct experience, 3. inquiry based and open ended learning, and 4. dynamic physical space. I conclude with my recommendations for an art museum interested in creating and maintaining a makerspace, using several examples from museums of all types that currently offer makerspaces as part of their programming.
Recommended Citation
Thorp, Kaeleigh, "Making Space for Makerspace: How Adding a Makerspace can Benefit Art Museum Education Programming" (2018). Master's Projects and Capstones. 867.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/867
