(Interim Report) K. Oakley for Burns Owens Partnership
Museums, Libraries and Archives Council, London, 2004
According to this report, there is widespread agreement
that the strongest evidence for impact of museums, libraries
and archives is on the personal development of individuals,
rather than on communities. This personal impact might take
the form of: acquisition of new skills; exposure to new
experiences; increased confidence or self esteem; or changed
or challenged attitudes. These institutions can also provide
support for individuals on educational courses.
The evidence for social impacts overlaps with learning
impacts. Many regional agencies use the concept of generic
learning outcomes (GLOs): these concern attitudes, behaviour
and values, such as empathy, motivation and tolerance. GLOs
test the view that learning in informal settings has a unique
character, and offers an alternative to the perceived emphasis
on assessment of much educational practice.
The report goes on to say that according to many literature
reviews, there is widespread public and practitioner belief
that the museums, libraries and archives sector contributes
to a variety of beneficial social outcomes. Documents tend
to describe the potential
for social impact. Many cultural institutions have interpreted
their role as being to widen access for socially excluded
groups rather than being to reach out and make an impact
on those groups. The literature suggests that the sector
has a role to play in overcoming social isolation (for both
groups and individuals); intercultural understanding; and
acting as safe places for meetings. However, proving a causal
link between a particular kind of engagement and an impact
in a particular policy area is difficult if not impossible.
See also Ideas for good practice using the arts and libraries
For the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) visit
www.mla.gov.uk
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