The Evolution of Museums as Centres for Learning: Chapters in Canadian Museology

An important part of change in the role of museums in society, is related to the educational mandate and public learning function of these institutions. Existing scholarship has identified education as a central museum activity, and has substantiated the importance of the educational function and the learning potential of museums. What were the factors and the history behind the changes which contributed to, and influenced the evolution of Canadian museums as centres for learning? The intent of this thesis is to address this question, to add to the body of knowledge on Canadian museology in general, and specifically to provide information on Canadian museums, education and learning. Change, as well as a connection to the past, have been constant influences in the evolution of Canadian museums as centres for learning. These and other salient issues have influenced events of the past. They will continue to make an impact into the future and will remain important in the ongoing evolution of Canadian museums as centres for learning as they enter the 21st century.