IDST3 Introduction to Museum Studies

Instructor Contact Info

Kinneret Alexander, Interdisciplinary Studies Department

Preferred contact is Canvas inbox, once you have access to the course. Expect a response time of 24-48 hours between 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday.

Email: kalexander@ccsf.edu

Phone: 415-452-5343

Course Information

Museums display, collect, preserve, and interpret art, cultural, and scientific artifacts. They offer multiple opportunities for learning, including lectures, exhibits, film screenings, hands-on experiences, and online portals. We will explore local museums while we study the history of museums in the United States and examine their impact on our lives: How can we engage museums as a community resource and open access to everyone?

With a focus on Bay Area institutions this course examines museums from multiple perspectives: museum physical and social architecture, collections, and multifaceted exhibits, as well as the people and economic realities involved in museum sustainability, and more. Through research, readings, hands-on projects, written reflections, dialogue and exchange, we will collaborate to build on and deepen our understanding of the value of museums. 

Meets CCSF GE Area E: Humanities; CSU/UC Transfer - CSU Area C2: Humanities; IGETC Area 3: Arts and Humanities; Elective for Collaborative Design Certificate Program

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Analyze creative and critical perspectives related to the history of museums in the United States and to current issues in museum studies

2. Assess the value and variety of the missions of museums in the context of local museum and exhibition resources

3. Examine multicultural voices and visions in art, history, and science museum collections

4. Integrate personally transformative museum experiences with community engagement strategies

5. Evaluate museum online portals for user friendliness and accessibility

Accessibility

This class has been designed to maximize learning success for all types of learners. Students who need academic accommodations can request them from Disabled Student Programs and Services (DSPS). Email: dspsacom@ccsf.edu Telephone: 415-452-5481 (V), 415-452-5451 (TDD) or use California Relay Service.

More Support

• Optionally join your instructor for a live Zoom Orientation Session

• Post anytime 24/7 to the course Q&A Discussion, for any course-related questions. 

• Canvas technical support is available 24/7 through Live Chat, searching the Canvas Guides, or calling the Canvas support hotline at (844) 592-2198

Online Learning

What are the real challenges encountered by both new and experienced online students, and how can you be successful? Tune into this short tutorial video to help debunk common myths about online learning.

What Makes a Successful Online Learner? Valuable tips for success and what to expect.