Science museums have traditionally played a very large role in introducing an American (and European) public to ideas about the nature of science and technology, and how these might fit into society. In fact, by the late Nineteenth Century, these museums had become a major vehicle for supporting and organizing science, as well as introducing a diverse population to scientific culture. In the Twentieth Century, universities became increasingly important, with a very professionalized group of scholars doing research and specialized teaching, mostly to full-time students. Thus universities and museums provide complementary educational services. Our museums bring knowledge to a very broad public, especially providing exciting and informative outings for American families. Their displays include a heady mixture of art, entertainment, and scientific information. However, museums are also terribly under-supported, particularly in their scientific functionings, and the scientific parts of their exhibits often leave much to be desired.

As a result, there are excellent opportunities to expand the usefulness and reach of museums in displaying basic science. Particularly in the United States, public understanding of science has fallen considerably below national need. Since universities contain the largest group of scholars, and museums know how to reach the broadest public, it seems natural for universities and museums to team up and put together plans for support by the nation (e.g. the National Science Foundation) and industries.

Major Goals:

1. Bringing together people from different institutions and disciplines interested in museum functioning.
2. Illustrating how museums and universities might be mutually useful.
3. Developing a better understanding of the meaning, purpose, and mechanism of museum exhibits.

Participation is by invitation. Those interested in attending should contact Melva Smith (info is below).