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The Museum School concept results in benefits to many groups as outlined below.
Students
- Students make real-life applications of what they learn in school
- Students gain a deeper understanding through active participation and periods of observation and reflection
- Results show that students who participate in Museum School programs demonstrate improved writing, problem solving, and critical thinking skills
- Students are exposed to various careers related to history, science, art, health care and education, giving them a heightened awareness of career choices within the community
- Students, some of whom may not otherwise have the opportunity, are given the chance to explore and discover the magical world of museums in their community
- Museum School makes learning fun!
"A mostly non verbal, special needs student completed several pictures of happy children. His teacher wrote, “He absolutely loved Museum School and the bus. It was an exceptional experience for him."
St. Bernadette Catholic School (London Regional Children’s Museum)
Teachers
- Museum School provides educators with a teaching environment that is ideal for richly integrated and cross-curricular learning allowing them to connect with their students in a fresh new setting
- Teachers learn more about their students’ strengths and learning styles, which helps them upon their return to the classroom
- Teachers gain knowledge of the educationally rich resources at local museums and gain confidence in making use of community resources
- Teachers expand their own learning in areas such as science, history, social studies and art
- Participation in Museum School is a professional development opportunity for teachers. They gain new teaching ideas, concepts and resources to implement back in their classroom
Parents and Other Adult Volunteers
- Adult volunteers assist with supervision of students and engage them in small group activities. Many have commented on how rewarding it is to see the students thrive with the additional adult support
- Volunteers become engaged and learn about the curriculum areas being presented
- Volunteers gain knowledge about the museum site, helping them to be more connected to their community
Museums
- Museum School gives students, teachers and volunteers a heightened awareness and better understanding of the museum’s collection and mandate
- Museums benefit from increased exposure and greater understanding of their educational and cultural value
- Museum School establishes and enhances community partnerships
- Museum School helps to build current and future audiences which increases utilization of the site
“My son learned more this week by living the experience than sitting in a regular classroom writing down facts… He was so excited to go back every day. He plans on being a tour guide for his grandparents to share all that he has learned!”
Sarah Perry, grade 3 parent, (Fanshawe Pioneer Village)