On Thu, 1 Feb 1996, Christopher Whittle wrote:

> Having first hand experience in educational settings should be a
> prerequisite for all museum personnel as an understanding of the teaching
> and learning process is required to fufill the museum's mission.
> Excepting, of course, those museums that consider themselves strictly
> research museums ( I bet you can't name one).

Mr. Whittle,

Your message seems to imply that a museum is not an educational setting.
Perhaps you are referring to formal education?  While I will not argue
against the value of experience in formal education, I do not believe
that it is a prerequisite for ALL museum work. Each staff member brings
his or her experience to the table. Certainly, it is important to have
an understanding of the teaching and learning process represented in this
mix.  However, a diverse staff with a broad range of experiences is equally
essential to ensuring that visitors have a quality educational
experience.

Susan Wageman
Grants Manager                    [log in to unmask]
The Tech Museum of Innovation     (408) 279-7178
145 West San Carlos Street        fax (408) 279-7149
San Jose, CA  95113  USA          http://www.thetech.org