2006 Volume 47 Issue 1 Pages 45-58
We visited nine museums and one field center in the UK in order to promote a tie-up of schools with museums in Japan. We observed in particular the activities of the children in the museums and the field center. Through these observations we were able to determine the essential elements that enable teachers to access them effectively. This report is based on the results obtained from this research. We found the following seven essential elements that could be utilized in Japan: 1. The museum presentations are directly related to school-based education. 2. Presentations and supplementary teaching materials for school-based education are supplied. 3. There is financial and conditional support from the UK government. 4. Cooperation between the government sector and the private sector is promoted. 5. A distinction is made between formal education for schools and informal education for the public. 6. Information is clearly presented to teachers. 7. The museum is presented as a place of wonder.