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  • 1.  Graduate Student working on thesis

    Posted 09-19-2018 09:19 PM
    I am a museum studies graduate student at University of the Arts working on my thesis, sensory inclusion for autistic visitors with an emphasis on design. Any museums to look at for sensory inclusion? How are museums handling the increasing need for inclusion on a daily bases? Are designers working with education within the institution on this subject?  

    Thank you for any insight!

    Rachel Landress
    MFA candidate, University of the Arts
    Museum Exhibition Planning + Design

    "You can never be overdressed or over-educated."- Oscar Wilde


  • 2.  RE: Graduate Student working on thesis

    Posted 09-20-2018 11:34 AM
    Hello Rachel,

    Most of what I have seen for autism spectrum visitors has been in the realm of sensory-friendly tours, separate programming, etc. One thing I did spot at the Glasgow Science Centre recently was they allow visitors with autism to avoid lines - you just ask a member of staff for assistance. I think that's important for the daily accessibility and inclusion you're looking into...making sure that visitors have accommodations whether or not they are part of a special group.

    Meredith

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    Meredith Peruzzi
    Manager
    Gallaudet University Museum
    Washington DC
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  • 3.  RE: Graduate Student working on thesis

    Posted 09-21-2018 07:58 AM
    I would recommend looking at the Madison Children's Museum. They are doing tremendous work around inclusion. The best contact is Sandra Bonnicci. Associate Director of Education, Diversity and Inclusion - sbonnici@madisonchildrensmuseum.org



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    Patricia Edwards
    Interim Associate Director
    Smithsonian Affiliations Smithsonian Institution
    Washington DC
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Graduate Student working on thesis

    Posted 09-20-2018 01:10 PM
    We're looking at doing sensory-friendly kits that visitors can borrow, with sound-muffling headphones and tinted glasses. Working with the exhibitions team to label areas that may be good for people to take out the kits. 

    Also, we're writing social stories for individuals, families, or groups to plan out their visits before they attend.

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    Lauren Girard
    Director of Visitor Services
    Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Museum
    Beverly Hills CA
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  • 5.  RE: Graduate Student working on thesis

    Posted 09-21-2018 12:21 PM
    I know at the children's museum of Sonoma county they have a "sensory free" day. They turn off all the automotrinica and sounds. It's less crowded etc. 

    Im not sure how successful this approach is. I took my son and it was quiet but a little like a ghost town. 

    I would be interested in reading your findings. I would like to know how the children are responding to the sensory boxes with headphones etc. I know this isn't a one size fits all type of plan but what is working?

    i am also a grad student in museum studies; I'm at USF. I have a 22  month old who has Down syndrome. My work and research is about inclusion as well. We should keep in touch!




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    Ginger Daley
    vmdaley@usfca.edu
    MA Candidate
    University of San Francisco
    Museums of Sonoma County
    Santa Rosa CA
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