Museums, participatory arts activities and wellbeing

Hazel Fenton

doi:10.5920/till.2013.515

Abstract

This paper explores how conventional teaching and learning strategies can be employed in museum arts activities, and outlines the relationship between museum learning and its impact on individual and community wellbeing. The topic is discussed in relation to key philosophical and pedagogical practices within teaching and learning in the museum sector. Within the paper, the term museum is used to refer to those sites that may also be referred to as galleries or heritage sites. Specific examples of practice are presented to illustrate how museum participatory arts activities can enhance wellbeing. These demonstrate how educators within this context can consciously integrate strategies into their planning and teaching to support learners’ wellbeing in a purposeful manner. Throughout the paper analysis is concerned with the impact of participation on learners and how future experiences can be enhanced, therefore improving practice.

Highlights

The profile of learners I teach within the museums sector is wide, ranging from secondary school pupils and Higher Education students to adult and young people’s groups within the community
This paper considers strategies I can methodically integrate into my museum teaching to support wellbeing purposefully, using arts and creativity as a vehicle, to a wide cross-section of formal and non-formal learners which is characteristic of my practice
The above discussion paper, David Cameron’s statement that ‘it’s time we focused not just on GDP – gross domestic product – but on GWB – general wellbeing’ (Guardian, 2010) and the development of the Five Ways To Wellbeing by the New Economics Foundation reflects how wellbeing is at the centre of current agendas

Summary

Introduction

The profile of learners I teach within the museums sector is wide, ranging from secondary school pupils and Higher Education students to adult and young people’s groups within the community. Key words Museums; Participation; Arts Activities; Wellbeing; Non-formal Learning; Community Learning. Throughout the paper specific examples are presented to illustrate how museum participatory arts activities can enhance wellbeing.

Results

Conclusion