2022 Learning Opportunities

For more information about the AMA's Learning Programs, please contact learning@museums.ab.ca. 

Please note that this schedule is subject to change at the discretion of the AMA.

Virtual Learning Opportunities

Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI) Workshop  
Introduction to Exhibit Lighting

October 4, 5, and 11, 2022
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. MT
Online 

The workshop will be held virtually in three sessions on October 4, 5, and 11, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. MDT. Participants will also receive readings and activities to complete before and between the workshop dates.

Upon completion of this online workshop, participants will be able to

• assess the risks associated with illuminating objects, considering their light-sensitivity and future exposure conditions;
• analyze the visibility and aesthetic aspects of lighting design; and
• understand the different illuminants available, with a focus on LED technology.

This workshop is well suited for anyone who contributes to lighting decisions in museums, galleries, and archives.

Registration for this workshop will open at 10:00 a.m. MDT on Monday, July 25.

Workshop space is limited, so please only register if you are able to attend all three dates.

Registration Rates:

• AMA Members: $20
• Non-Members: $30

For more information, please contact learning@museums.ab.ca.

Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI) Pilot Workshop
Still Image Digitization for Heritage Institutions

March 2, 9, 16, and 23, 2022
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. MT.
Online 
Free

This online pilot workshop provides in-depth training on still image digitization of reflective objects and small transparencies. Topics include digital imaging concepts, equipment selection criteria, verification of specifications claimed by vendors, software selection and use, general considerations for archiving and publishing, digitization workflow, project planning, and project management. 

This workshop will be held virtually in four sessions, on March 2, 9, 16, and March 23, and additional activities of up to one hour may be given prior to all sessions.

Upon completion of this online workshop, participants will be able to

• determine what equipment is appropriate for various still image applications, and select and evaluate materials for scanning;
• prepare a digitization workspace, and develop a digitization policy and plan;
• define detailed steps in digitizing and in post-processing images as well as the quality review processes;
• locate the main internal components of flatbed scanners, understand a scanner's key specifications, and independently verify them;
• resolve common scanning issues (such as poor signal-to-noise ratios, skew, image artifacts, and moiré); and
• distinguish key activities in cataloguing and documenting metadata, including key considerations for managers overseeing digitization projects.

This workshop is well suited for those working in cultural heritage institutions who are seeking basic training on still image scanning practices and standards. While some managerial tasks are covered, focus is given to hands-on digitization. Some special equipment is required. 

This workshop is now full. 

Certificate in Museum Studies - Online

Research (CMS 22 - 05)
June 6 - July 7, 2022
Combined asynchronous and synchronous, Online
Instructors: Anna Rebus and Tricia Carleton

Research is undertaken in all areas of museum practice as it is fundamental to the museum's purpose and programs. Participants will explore the kinds of research conducted in museums and will learn practical guidelines for planning and conducting research projects. Topics covered will include discipline-based research, collections-based research, research relating to museum functions and activities, and research methodologies such as field research and oral history interviews.

 This self-paced, module-based, combined asynchronous and synchronous course will run on the AMA's virtual learning platform from June 6 to July 7, 2022. The course includes four required live, virtual meetings with instructors Anna Rebus and Tricia Carleton. The required virtual meetings will take place on June 8, 15, 22, and June 29, 2022, from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Registration for this course will open at 10:00 a.m. MDT on Monday, May 9, 2022, on our events page.

The AMA is offering this course at a pilot rate of $100. This is in recognition that the course is a pilot and participants will be asked for additional evaluation and feedback about their experience with the virtual course. Please contact learning@museums.ab.ca for information about further discounted registration rates for Indigenous participants.

The AMA is currently reviewing the Certificate in Museum Studies Program to update courses to virtual learning opportunities and ensure the curriculum aligns with current standards and issues in the museum sector. This course is the third in a series of online pilot courses launched in the Fall 2021 and ongoing into 2022.

For more information, please contact learning@museums.ab.ca.

Collections Management (CMS 22 - 04)
February 28 - March 28, 2022
Asynchronous, online
Instructor: Breanna Suk

Collections are at the heart of a museum. Participants will learn about the policies, practices, and skills needed to manage museum collections. This course moves from broad concerns relating to public trust, cultural diversity, and planning through to issues in the areas of acquisitions, records management, and loans.

This self-paced, module-based, asynchronous course will run on the AMA's virtual learning platform from February 28 to March 28, 2022, with four required live, virtual meetings with instructor Breanna Suk. The required virtual meetings will take place on March 3, 10, 17, and March 24, 2022, from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

The AMA is offering this course at a pilot rate of $100. This is in recognition that the course is a pilot and participants will be asked for additional evaluation and feedback about their experience with the virtual course. Please contact learning@museums.ab.ca for information about further discounted registration rates for Indigenous participants.

The AMA is currently reviewing the Certificate in Museum Studies Program to update courses to virtual learning opportunities and ensure the curriculum aligns with current standards and issues in the museum sector. This course is the second in a series of online pilot courses launched in the Fall 2021 and ongoing into Spring 2022.

For more information, please contact learning@museums.ab.ca.