Research function of museums and an evaluation on management of research activities in museums

In the beginning of the 21st century, a communication-based approach has been embraced in museology. Regarding this approach, the main functions of the museums have been divided into three groups: preservation, research and communication. Preservation and communication are the functions that have generally been focused. Research has usually been underestimated; the context and content of this function has not been clearly stated. Research is the key function in museums and serves as a base for other functions and services. Museum research begins with object-based and subject area research. But, it also includes different types of research. In addition to object-based and subject area research, museum research includes research on museum functions such as acquisition, preservation and communication and also museological research such as audience research, market research and management research. An operational plan and a policy are needed to conduct an effective research function. Museums should attach importance to the research which is the key function and base for all functions and services and also organize the management of museum research effectively. In this thesis, the goal is to clarify the research activities in museums and the content of the museum research and also to mention the effective management of research. Furthermore, a few different samples in museums abroad regarding museum research are examined. It is pointed out that conducting research activities contributes to the development of the public. In the thesis, the factors preventing the museums from conducting research activities are also stated and some suggestions are offered to eliminate these factors. Books, articles, thesis and proceedings are examined. Thus, the research activities in museums are tried to be determined. As a conclusion, an overall assessment about the issue is made. As a result of this research, it has been revealed that the research activities should be conducted by a research department according to a research policy in collaboration with universities, specialists, fellows, students and volunteers and the results of these research activities should be shared with the public. Keywords: museum, museum functions, research function, collection, research management, research policy.