과학관 활성화를 위한 도슨트 제도 개선 연구

Abstract

The revitalization of science museum depends on the number of qualified docents who can meet the museum visitors` educational needs. However, the current unstructured docent system is not sufficient to meet the goal. Forty six docents currently working in science museums were surveyed about docent training program, current working conditions, and docent professional program in order to propose a viable system providing a docent profession. Data were collected through surveys with 46 docents, interviews with two experienced docents, and several artifacts from the science museum and selected docents. The surveys consisted of 47 items asking about personal biography, docent`s perception, docents training program they took, current working conditions, and supplementary professional program. The conclusion of this study is as follows; First, there must be recognition about docents who can play educator`s roles which are different from those of general volunteers in terms of recruiting and training system in science museum. Second, docents need to take training and supplementary professional courses that focus on observing and educating visitors in the field. Third, we need a docent management system by employing a well structured evaluating tools. A well established docent system will bring forth the enhancement of science museum education and the increase of science popularization by providing visitors with the quality educational services.