Research on the development strategy of science museums in the context of ICOM's new museum definition
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The release of the new museum definition by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) in 2022 signifies a profound paradigm shift within the global museum sector. Using this new definition as a theoretical lens, this study focuses on science museums. By constructing an analytical model comprising five dimensions-"community participation, accessibility and inclusion, interpretation, diversity and sustainability, and education, enjoyment, reflection, and knowledge sharing", the paper conducts case studies of three innovative projects at the China Science and Technology Museum, which are The Glory of China: The Candlelight of Civilization, Polaris Dialogue, and Hands-On Science and Technology. The findings indicate that, through their practice, these projects systematically address the core requirements of the new definition, culminating in three referential "Science and Technology Museum Solutions": the "deep co-creation model", the "public forum model", and the "resource-inclusive model". The study further reveals three strategic shifts in the future development of science and technology museums: the functional orientation is elevating from a "venue for knowledge dissemination" to a "platform for scientific and cultural innovation"; the organizational model is evolving from an "independently operating institution" to a "hub within an ecological network"; and the service paradigm is iterating from "standardized provision" toward "personalized experiences". By delineating practical pathways and industry trends, this research offers empirical support and actionable references for the new definition, aiming to provide theoretical underpinnings and practical guidance for the transformation and upgrading of science and Technology museums in the new era.
Source: Modern Science
Author: Min Li
Language: English
Subfield: Museology
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7127053786
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