In this paper, evaluator Marilyn G. Hood, Ph.D. of Hood Associates discusses learning opportunities from projects, programs and plans that don't go as planned. Hood presents examples from her career and argues that it is essential to report failed or difficult experiences to the rest of the field to help colleagues avoid the same problems and to advance the field of visitor studies.
DATE:
TEAM MEMBERS:
Marilyn G. Hood, Ph.D.
resourceresearchProfessional Development, Conferences, and Networks
This paper presents a transcript from a panel discussion at a VSA program gathered to explore issues of concern related to the life of the "in-house evaluator." Three panelists, experience in-house evaluators, discuss their personal solutions to these issues and contradictions raised by this unique position, in the hope of helping professionals new to the task.
This paper outlines findings from a 1990 survey conducted by the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (AAZPA), specifically related to the prevalence and value of teacher training programs at accredited AAZPA institutions.
DATE:
TEAM MEMBERS:
Nancy A. Hotchkiss
resourceresearchProfessional Development, Conferences, and Networks
In this paper, Lois H. Silverman of Indiana University examines visitor studies teaching and training needs. Silverman summarizes discussions and recommendations formed during a forum on this topic at a recent VSA conference.
DATE:
TEAM MEMBERS:
Lois H. Silverman
resourceresearchProfessional Development, Conferences, and Networks
In this paper, Harris H. Shettel, evaluation consultant, examines the "Professional Standards for the Practice of Visitor Research and Evaluation in Museums" approved by the AAM Committee on Audience Research and Evaluation or CARE. Shettel specifically comments on Section II that deals with the competencies required by visitor studies professionals. Shettel argues that it is time to move away from generalities described in this document and move toward articulating practices proven useful over time.
DATE:
TEAM MEMBERS:
Harris H. ShettelVisitor Studies Association
resourceresearchProfessional Development, Conferences, and Networks
In this article, Florence Bramley-Hill, independent consultant and creativity couch, presents brainstorming techniques that can be used as a tool for enhancing creativity and problem-solving.
DATE:
TEAM MEMBERS:
Florence Bramley-HillVisitor Studies Association
resourceresearchProfessional Development, Conferences, and Networks
In this message from the President of VSA, Ross J. Loomis introduces this issue of "Visitor Studies Today!" and discusses a few relevant topics including student involvement in visitor studies and VSA housekeeping items (conference, committee nominations).
DATE:
TEAM MEMBERS:
Ross Loomis
resourceresearchProfessional Development, Conferences, and Networks
In this article, Ellen Giusti, exhibition evaluator at AMNH and the AAM Committee on Audience Research and Evaluation (CARE) Chair, discusses proceedings from the 1999 Annual AAM National Program Committee Meeting in Cleveland as well as plans for next meeting and updates on AAM organizational issues.
In this note from the editor of "Visitor Studies Today!", Kris Morrissey introduces the issue with an update on the annual VSA conference. Morrissey also discusses two new columns in the issue: one on thoughts and experiences with the processes or products of evaluation and one on technology.
This article features eight abstracts from the First Annual Visitor Studies Conference. Institutions represented in these abstracts include the Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village, Science Learning, Inc., Hood Associates, Jacksonville State University, Smithsonian Institution, and University of Florida.
DATE:
TEAM MEMBERS:
G. Donald AdamsJohn H FalkMarilyn G. HoodDonald PattersonStephen BitgoodD.D. HilkeJohn Scott FosterJohn J. Koran, Jr.Mary Lou KoranSteven StartAnn BlackwoodHarriet Landers
resourceresearchProfessional Development, Conferences, and Networks
In this report, Minda Borun summarizes the activities of the business meeting of the Education Committee, which took place at the 1988 Annual Meeting of the American Association of Museums in Pittsburgh.
In this brief announcement, Harris Shettel, Chair of the AAM Evaluation and Research Committee, discusses recent news about the Committee, including its approval by the AAM council as a Standing Professional Committee and relevant activities at the upcoming AAM program in New Orleans.