Inclusivity in Dutch Science Museums

Abstract

This study explored what Dutch science museums are currently doing to reach an inclusive audience. Furthermore, it explored their current visitor profile and the problems these museums encounter while trying to be inclusive. I analyzed publicly accessible documents of seven science museums across the Netherlands, conducted semi-structured interviews with their representatives and had an interview with the project leader of Diversity and Inclusivity of the sector organization of science museums and science centers in the Netherlands. For the analysis of the transcripts I used a combination of deductive and inductive coding methods. The results show that the dominant groups which visits Dutch science museums are higher educated, higher income, with white European background families, experienced museum visitors, elders and tourists. The nondominant groups are teenagers, younger students, people from a migration background and people with lower socio-economic backgrounds. The results imply that the museums do not yet have a definition of inclusion. The nondominant groups are mostly reached through formal education programs and activities the museums provide. Other inclusive actions undertaken are being free of admission, (free) one-time events, activities and programs. The problems museums encounter while trying to be inclusive are not having a diverse management, not knowing how to communicate with nondominant groups and not having enough money to bind new target audiences to the museum. I conclude that inclusion in Dutch science museums is at the beginning stage, but that the museums are gaining awareness regarding attracting inclusive audiences and becoming an inclusive institution.