Digital Engagement, Diversity and Access in Museum Education

Abstract

In the wake of 2020’s Coronavirus pandemic, museums and galleries across the world were forced to close and many of these institutions turned to programming activities online rather than onsite. This paper explores that move from the physical to the digital realm through two case studies within the Learning and National Programmes department at The National Gallery in London. It addresses the obstacles and benefits of online working with two very different audiences, young people in education and a community group of people living with mental health difficulties. The paper seeks to elaborate on the specific challenges of working with these audiences and contribute to the development of best practice in the field.