The Principles of Museum Learning

Professional development course

+44 (0)20 7942 2000

What sparks curiosity and creativity in the museum? There are a variety of ways to learn about and engage with collections, but how do you facilitate learning amongst all audiences? This six week online course will cover the key considerations in creating varied learning programmes with lasting impact, as well as the administrative tools required for planning, delivery and evaluation.


Using real-life case studies and tangible examples, the course will support you in putting learning into practice in any institution or budget. You will study the methodologies that museums and cultural institutions employ to attract and engage with different audiences and communities, from children, young people and schools, to longer courses for adult learning. Participants will gain an understanding of a broad range of current thinking and critical approaches to learning in the museum, and how to implement efficient evaluation frameworks to reach target audiences.

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Portrait of Course Leader Kara Wescombe Blackman

Course Leader
Kara Wescombe Blackman

Kara has 25 years of experience working in and advising both national and independent museums, including the V&A, where she initiated new learning programmes alongside major museum developments. Kara has worked with collections and exhibitions, creating inclusive learning programmes for different audiences.

I would like to thank all the contributors to the course who have made it an interesting and enlightening experience. Every week I have taken away at least one thing that I can work on to develop learning at my museum. Previous Professional Development course attendee

Course overview

Using the V&A’s practical expertise and expansion as a catalyst for discussion, this six-week course offers a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes and learn how museums, whether at regional or national level, operate programming, events and resources to foster learning. 

You will gain an understanding of a broad range of current thinking and critical approaches to facilitating meaningful learning amongst audiences with V&A staff and expert colleagues from across the UK who will reflect on pedagogy, policies and sector priorities from diversity to digital.  

This online course comprises live presentations, panel discussions, exclusive interviews, and group workshop sessions, designed to create an engaging and interactive experience in whichever time zone you are joining from 
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V&A Academy Online. A learning environment you can trust.

V&A Academy Online courses are built using the latest Microsoft software. Tune in to expert lectures live, or catch up later on demand. Download handouts and presentations. Join the discussion

Enrol now

Professional development course: The Principles of Museum Learning

18 September 2024 - 23 October 2024

£360.00

Need help enrolling? Talk to the admissions team:

+44 (0)20 7942 2000

Open 10.00 - 13.00, Monday to Sunday (closed 24-26 December)