Abstract
This action research study examines how museums can illuminate community stories through participatory architectural investigation while fostering youth belonging and historical preservation awareness. The Haan Museum of Indiana Art developed and piloted an interdisciplinary curriculum with middle school students during a week-long summer camp, exploring museum architecture and the surrounding historic district as community storytelling tools. Findings demonstrate that students developed increased understanding of architecture’s role in historical preservation, while participatory investigation methods enhanced their sense of place and community connection. The research reveals that museum-based learning effectively bridges historical concepts with contemporary relevance, creating meaningful educational experiences that connect youth with their built environment. The study provides a replicable curriculum framework for museum-community partnerships, assessment strategies for measuring student engagement with architectural heritage, and methods for connecting built environment exploration to historical preservation education. This paper shares curriculum components, student work samples, and research analyses, offering practical tools for museums seeking to develop participatory programs that connect youth with the cultural heritage in their communities.
Presenters
Kerrie BellisarioExecutive Director and Chief Programs Officer, The Haan Museum of Indiana Art, Indiana, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Community Engagement, Youth Engagement, Participatory Learning Programs, Museum Education, K-12
