In this paper, Harris Shettel, museum evaluation consultant, examines the rise of controversial museum exhibitions. Shettel argues that controversial subject matter should not be avoided, but rather presented in exciting, interesting and challenging ways that avoid controversy. Shettel points to the "Prisoners of War: Soviet Prisoners in Germany - German Prisoners in the Soviet Union" exhibition as an exemplar. The various ways exhibit evaluation studies can play an important role avoiding controversy are also identified.
DATE:
TEAM MEMBERS:
Harris ShettelVisitor Studies Association
In this article, Harry Searles, Director of Educational Services at the Ohio Historical Society, discusses the development of four computer programs used as orientation and exit exhibits. These programs aimed to improve and measure visitor interaction and understanding. Findings from this research are briefly summarized.
In this article, Linda A. Black, Exhibits Planning Director at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, discusses methods and findings from the Kellogg Demonstration Project. The project directly involved museum staff in the instrument design and data collection for evaluation of the Museum's new "Mysteries in History" exhibit. Also, a computer software package known as "Looking Closely" was developed to assist with data collection and analysis.