VA7011 - Cultural Heritage and Museums

This module encourages self-directed learning, supported and guided by the teaching team of active academics. Lectures and seminars introduce the breadth and depth of ideas in the subject area and foster curiosity and analytical skills, alongside experiential activities, visits and field experiences in the NewcastleGateshead region where diverse approaches to practice offer a foundation for ongoing development of management skills. We also focus on technology-enhanced, small-group and one-on-one approaches to teaching and learning, emphasising student-centred and practical activities and debates. Technology is central to this process as a tool supporting the everyday learning activities (through audio and visual materials, discussion boards, collaborations, blogs and student websites), which offers equal opportunities for both campus and distance students.

Your module tutor will play an active role in guiding you through module sessions, e-learning interactive activities and one-on-one electronic and academic tutorial support. Seminars, tutorials and on-site institutional and industry trips (in-person or through audio and video sessions) will offer additional opportunities to experience processes and issues, and ask to questions. All course materials will be made available on the relevant module e-Learning Portal sites.

At Department and Faculty level, the Student Administration and Support Centre (SASC) provides a place to ask questions (e.g. regarding timetables, late submissions and personal extenuating circumstances). SASC will refer you to the correct university service if it cannot directly help you.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Critical understanding of contemporary policies, trends and debates in the museum and heritage sector environments, as related to the practical and professional considerations of heritage managers

2. Ability to critically evaluate the processes and effectiveness of museum and heritage management through observed practice, and advanced knowledge related to the what, why and how of cultural heritage management

Intellectual/Professional skills & abilities:
3. Demonstrated ability to engage with public policy, institutional systems, partnerships, consultations and other strategic processes required in the field.

4. Demonstrate the cognitive and intellectual skills required to reflect on, engage with and communicate effectively in museum and heritage working environments

Personal Values Attributes:
5. Gain an awareness of strategic visioning, employability and enterprise opportunities in relation to professional development by demonstrating confidence in public heritage communications

FORMATIVE
Formative assessment will be carried out throughout the seminar sessions where students will discuss literature, issues and themes; undertake problem-orientated tasks; and complete weekly e-tivities relating to a wider range of issues pertinent to cultural and creative industries. Peer and tutor feedback, and self-reflection, will encourage personal values attributes of sensitivity, ethics and curiosity. Formative assessment will also be carried out through the briefing and development sessions in relation to the summative assessment.

SUMMATIVE
The summative assessment will be a 4000 word essay demonstrating students' understanding of policies, debates and practices in the museum and heritage sector, using specific practice-oriented case studies (80%), plus an online/in-class seminar presentation on a weekly session topic of 1000 words (20%). Both will require students to demonstrate and elaborate the synthesis of theory to practice.

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Please find details of this module in the other sections provided