THE EVOLUTION OF MUSEUM EDUCATION IN THE ROMANIAN SPACE*
THE EVOLUTION OF MUSEUM EDUCATION IN THE ROMANIAN SPACE*

Summary/Abstract: From the emergence of the first public collections to the present day, museums in Romania have undergone a series of essential transformations, influenced by economic, political, and cultural changes. These developments have not only altered the structure and role of museums but have also redefined their place in society. Thus, the definition of the museum and its functions has evolved significantly over time, reflecting the overall evolution of Romanian society. In the early period, museums primarily served the purposes of collecting and exhibiting, often functioning as repositories for rare or significant objects from various fields (history, science, art), intended for a limited audience. The museum's main function was, therefore, to preserve heritage and make it available to a select number of people who had access to these collections. In the 20th century, museums began to take on a more complex role, adapting to the needs and demands of a changing society. In this context, the educational function of museums became increasingly prominent. After World War II, museums were perceived not only as spaces for preserving heritage but also as educational institutions with the responsibility of contributing to the cultural formation of the general public. As a result, museums started to diversify their activities by organizing interactive exhibitions, conferences, educational programs, and events aimed at attracting visitors of all ages. During the communist period, museum education had a propagandistic character, serving as a tool for transmitting the regime's ideology through thematic exhibitions, mandatory visits, and reinterpretations of history that favored the single-party system. It was during this period that the concept of a "museum for all" emerged, making public access and cultural education essential priorities. Modern technologies, including digitization, have played a crucial role in attracting an increasingly diverse audience and expanding the educational impact of museums. Thus, museums in Romania, like those worldwide, have evolved from being mere exhibition spaces for valuable objects into complex educational and cultural institutions where the public can access knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of cultural heritage.

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