the connectivist museum

What does it mean for a museum to be part of today’s connected culture? New technologies like AI and web-based networks offer exciting opportunities—and important challenges. At Design Museum Gent we’re exploring how to better connect our collections by using international standards, enriching our metadata, and embracing digital tools in a responsible, thoughtful way. We aim to do all this while staying true to our mission: caring for our collection and honoring the creators behind it.

What is the connectivist museum?

The connectivist museum leverages web technology and information networks for the structuring and (1) positioning of the museum and its (digital) assets within the datasphere, and through these actions (2) broadening its reach towards diverse audiences.

Connectivism is a learning theory consistent with the needs of the 21st century and emcompasses the integration of principles explored by chaos, network, and complexity and self-organization theories. Learning is a process that occurs within nebulous environments of shifting core elements – not entirely under the control of the individual. (George Siemens, 2005)

digital CULTURE

we are constantly building, defining and expanding our digital culture. This culture is guided by a holistic (digital) strategy and a set of principles, but moreover, it transforms and adheres to distinct and present challenges, needs and ambitions within the organization.

digital CARE

we care for both collections and its digital ‘twins’ defined by both metadata and reproductions. We approach digitalization more as a form of caretaking and less as a necessity, as predetermined in the data-driven society. Digitization only makes sense when its purpose is clearly defined.

NETWORK culture

we build and nurture a network culture by strategically making use of network technologies and its affordances. Our APIs are a driving force and enabler to establish this culture.

Generosity (SHARE)

we are generous in what we share with our publics, also digitally. We make use of open licenses without impeding or endangering the rights of the represented designer. We encourage inspiration and re-use, but also want to do this in a manner that is respectful and caring for both users and that what is being ‘used’.

ENGAGEment

we engage with a broad group of stakeholders to activate our digitized collections. In a co-creative manner and participatory way we open doors for new interpretations that can take form through artist commissions, public workshops or any form of collaboration that leads to the further cultivation of our digital culture.