| Abstrakt: |
With increasing importance being placed by governments on the understanding of science and scientific research, it is widely believed that museums offer an opportunity to enhance this process. This study, the first of its kind, investigates the current extent and nature of the scientific content included within UK archaeology museums, utilising a postal survey of a stratified sample of 100 curatorial staff responsible for archaeology exhibits. The academic backgrounds of the respondents and their attitudes to the inclusion of specific scientific topics within their museums are elucidated. At 62%, the response rate was relatively high; most of the respondents recognised the potential for presenting archaeological science in an accessible and meaningful manner. Scope for respondents to add further comments was provided in the questionnaire and these proved to be particularly enlightening - highlighting the issues constraining the increased use of scientific interpretation, offering solutions and supplying their specific experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
