The Value and Impact of Museum Visiting Program

Based on a Collaboration between University, Elementary School, and Art Museum

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the goals of an art appreciation program implemented by an art museum and a school, and demonstrate its learning effects. First, we determined the need for school programs to clarify the effects that they wish to bring about in students by viewing and touring artwork and exhibitions. Based on this, we designed a program for upper elementary school students who visited the Yoshiro Suda exhibition. Outcomes of the program revealed that 1) the children perceived the activity of thinking and talking about artwork as fun, 2) they acquired a new perspective on viewing artwork, and 3) they used this perspective in their daily lives as well as in the museum.