4-13-16
Al Frank
Active museum volunteer and consultant
It is important to keep the subject in the proper perspective. Improper
behavioral displays do create problems and should be addressed. Based on
the response in the Forum it probably occurs more often than is made
known. Irregardless, it would be best to consider this kind of problem a
challenge that will not be completely eliminated but mitigated to a large
degree. Most often a museum field trip is provided by a school or
organization with the purpose of expanding the education input to a
student. As such the museum exposes the student to subject matter
different from day to day classroom activities. As a museum, it is an
environment for the student to expand that part of the learning process
possibly not accessible in any other manner---both by first hand personal
contact and a visual impression. As a result, the museums and their
staff provide the method and environment as apart of the learning process
and hopefully are successful in their transfer of knowledge they have to
offer. It is important that the museum do have a well thought out
procedure or protocol, and policy, discussed and in place in the event of
"horrible behavior", or some other distracting or embarrassing incident
that could be destructive or dangerous.
Being the student is the subject and primary purpose for this learning to
even occur and be successful, it is necessary the school accept its
responsibility and do its part prior to and during field trips. If the
school is unable to instill basic courtesy and discipline while being a
visitor or "guest" it should not be left to museum staff or management to
engage in remedial actions relating to a student's, or chaperone's,
personal deficiencies. Many museum staff are "professionals" while many
may not be, especially volunteers.
It's important to do the prior, proper, planning, within both schools and
museums, and, communicate adequately about anything contrary to good
behavior in either direction. This includes personal, preferably
written, notification of principals or supervisors, so effective remedies
can be applied for the benefit of the students and chaperones involved.
Be firm! Nothing can be gained by not communicating when appropriate or
warranted.
Prior Proper Planning Positively Prevents Problems-----------It Works!
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Original Message------
As museum professionals, it is our responsibility to prepare for all contingencies. I hope that before condemning the conduct of the class and going to the principal you thoroughly examine your own school group procedures and protocols to determine whether:
--staff and volunteers are adequately trained to handle such situationss
--a separate school group entrance is provided
--a museum docent or greeter makes contact with the group leader upon arrival and orients the group
The last thing we want to do is get teachers in trouble with their supervisors, ban students, and embarrass everyone involved. My advice is to learn from this unfortunate incident and make changes to prevent it reoccurrence.
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Andrew Masich
President & CEO
Senator John Heinz History Center
Pittsburgh PA
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