Course content

The course provides insight into the research and management of cultural heritage with particular emphasis on the role of university museums, their opportunities and challenges as research-, dissemination- and management institutions in the field of heritage. The course will focus on the role of the cultural heritage in a world where ethnic, cultural, religious and historical boundaries and identities are challenged at the intersection of local, regional and global levels. How can university museums position themselves in such a complex situation, and in which way can the museums increase the understanding of and for the cultural heritage as a resource of knowledge? The course will provide a general introduction to the philosophy of conservation, the role of the university museums as producers of knowledge, heritage and museums in conflict areas, heritage and history, and university museums' collection management.

Learning outcome

A candidate who has passed the course is expected to have the following learning outcomes according to the curriculum description for the subject, defined as knowledge and skills:

Knowledge

Candidates must have a thorough knowledge of

• museums in society - the philosophy of conservation and museological theory
• the University Museum's role as producers of knowledge regarding heritage, conflict and democracy

Skills

Candidates must

• be able to use the knowledge to analyze aspects related to University museums role in the field of heritage studies
• be able to actively participate in the cooperation between the museum sector, administration, research institutions and society in general
• be able to analyze the complex interactions between production of knowledge, the museum as a caretaker and an institution of dissemination and the society

Learning methods and activities

The course will consist of lectures, seminars and contact with the museum sector.

Required previous knowledge

Bachelor's degree in Archaeology, Cultural Heritage or Art History

Course materials

Each semester there will be published an updated syllabus containing information about textbooks and aids.