Abstract
The present study refers to the case of an educational program based on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics) approach which was implemented with individuals with disabilities in a thematic technological museum in Lesvos island (Greece). The educational program “From the olive press to the art gallery” took place in the frame of the “Green Cultural Routes”, a national cultural campaign of the Greek Ministry of Culture that aims to promote sustainable development through activities related to culture and natural environment and enhance the participation of various social groups. The study discusses the interconnection of STEAM approach core elements and its potential to promote inclusion, participation and interaction of persons with disabilities within museums. It presents the framework of the collaboration, the content, the structure and the implementation of the educational program with a group of individuals with disabilities from a local Creative Employment Center for Children and Individuals with Disabilities (KDAP-AMEA). Evaluation data were gathered via: a. questionnaires completed by the educators who accompanied the group and by museum staff who attended the program and b. field notes by the authors and instructors. The study considers ways in which museums promote inclusion, SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) and meaningful experiences for persons with disabilities and the significance of partnerships and local networks for the development of innovative inclusive practices within museums.
Presenters
Anastasia Zoi SouliotouAssistant Professor, School of Early Childhood Education, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece Charikleia Kanari
Assistant Professor in Museum Education, School of Early Childhood Education, Faculty of Education, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Technological Museums, Disability, STEAM, SDGs, Visual Arts, Inclusion
