Museums our own way: accessibility and inclusion for disabled individuals with multi-faceted access needs in a science-based museum

Authors:

• Malikai Bass, Museology Graduate Program
• Chair: Jessica Luke
• Stephen Meyers
• Heather Feldner

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Abstract:

Research on accessibility in museums tends to focus on narrow constructions of disability based on the medical model. Therefore, it overlooks many of the nuances and overlapping complexities of the lived experiences of disabled individuals in museums. Additionally, sciencebased museums are underrepresented in this research. This phenomenological study used a self-narrated visit to examine the experiences of four disabled adults with multi-faceted access needs in the Burke Museum through the lens of the human rights model. The goal was to understand what barriers to accessibility exist in museums and whether and how disabled adults feel included in science-based museums. The results show that significant access barriers remain in museums which require disabled visitors to expend additional energy and resources before, during, and after their visit. Additionally, supports when available are often difficult to navigate or access. These barriers and the lack of supports negatively impact adults’ sense of inclusion and belonging in science-based museums.