Museums in Qatar and their Educational Role in aLearning-Ecosystem Approach

Abstract

This article discusses the role of museums in Qatar as participants in an educational ecosystem. An educational ecosystem is an educational approach that involves a network of participants rather than being confined to educational institutions and learners. This approach aims to increase the quality of education and achieve educational excellence through building a culture of lifelong learning. This article analyses the ways in which Qatar Museums (QM) embodies this approach by considering its relationship with the education sector and local community. This evaluation aims to identify how museums conceptualize their educational roles within the community and how these museums complement the educational-ecosystem approach some educational institutions already employ in Qatar. It is clear that, even though QM has a clear cultural and educational agenda, the gap between QM, the community, and the educational sector is apparent. Thus, I argue that advocacy is vital for museums to support their new educational programs. In addition, a collaborative national agenda should be developed between the museum sector, educational sector, and community in order to encourage lifelong learning.