Paper discussions:

I think it is great that museums are actually working towards putting their collections database online with only limited public access. Museums are supposed to be for the people, a resource for learning. OpenCollection software is very user friendly and will allow people the type of access to collections that promotes thorough research. Other museums will also benefit from the collaboration opportunities it presents. A database is not as valuable if it is just a resource for collections staff. This software allows all of the museum staff to benefit from it, as well as the public. The link between externally and internally focused collection functions can be very helpful. I love that it frees up some finances by not requiring license fees, etc.

I liked the idea of My Evidence a lot. It reminded me of a project Marisa, Aspen, and I created for the Intro class last year. We created a plan for an introductory hall to explore the statement, “Scientific knowledge is uncertain, tentative and subject to revision.” Recent controversy over topics such as evolution and global warming, demonstrate the ease in which the public can develop criticism for that which they cannot directly observe. The exhibit we proposed, “What is fact?” aimed to create in the visitor a tolerance for uncertainty and recognition that science is not a linear process with concrete answers. As an introductory hall, it targeted those visitors with skepticism and preconceived notions of what a science or natural history museum has to offer. I think it is great to allow the visitor a chance to challenge the science they are about to see. It is great to let them know how we as a museum staff, gather evidence to present a product to the public.