Learn what collections do, how they work, and why they matter

Discover how you can be a more active, engaged, and informed about museum collections

This course is designed around Big Questions that help us see and use collections differently

• What is a collection?
• Who collects and why?
• How are collections managed and used by the public?
• How can I be more active in using public collections or supporting collecting instutitions?

Who Is This Course For

• Grades 9-12 and adult learners seeking deeper knowledge of how collections work, their important role in public life, and how you can take advantage of what they have to offer

• Educators and homeschoolers wanting to learn more about how collections work and enhance student engagement with museums, archives, and other collections held in the public trust

Course Requirements

• There are no prerequisites. No prior knowledge or experience required

• Completion of the introductory museum studies course ‘Learning to Look at Museums‘ is recommended, but not required

• This course is entirely online, asynchronous and self-paced. We do not meet at a specific time

• To receive a Certificate of Completion for PD/CEU credit hours or course equivalency documentation, you must complete at least 80% of the course and all required coursework