Actualization of cultural heritage by museum means for the visitors with hearing impairment

Abstract

The subject of this research is the actualization of cultural heritage by museum means. The object of this research is the adaptation of persons with hearing impairment, namely the experience of Russian museums. Museum plays a significant role in the processes of sociocultural adaptation, self-identification and social inclusion of the people with disabilities, possessing a unique set of criteria, ability to accumulate and transmit cultural potential. The active participation of museums in solution of sociocultural problems in many ways determines the vector of further development of museology, implementing modern cultural practices. The authors believe that working with the hearing-impaired visitors requires reconsideration of the traditional ways of presenting museum information and development of the new forms of interpretation of exhibition material. The conclusion is made that museum personnel should orient towards the individual peculiarities of each visitor, taking into account their capabilities in selecting the channel of museum communication, forms, methods and approaches. Museum personnel should plan their work jointly with the pedagogues, rehabilitation specialists, social workers, psychologists, and persons with disabilities directly. Each museum should be provided with the necessary conditions for working with children of each disability category. Namely this underlied the development of the concept of museum tour “We Can Hear You Through The Eyes” on the premises of Kuzbass State Museum of Local Lore.