Staff Training Policy Staff working in the WA Museum's Aquatic Zoology collection Image copyright WA Museum Image from 'A behind-the-scenes look at our malacology collection'. Staff training provides museum personnel with relevant skills, a better understanding of museum theory and practice and greater insight into museological methods and techniques. Knowledge gained from staff training can be directly translated into improvements to museum programs, exhibits and overall operation. The development of a staff training policy and the implementation of a training program should enable community museums to upgrade services and meet established standards. Developing a staff training policy A staff training policy forms part of a larger museum management policy. The policy development process will depend on circumstances, staff and available resources. The policy should be developed cooperatively with input from board members, volunteers, employees and anyone else on whom this would have a bearing. The ultimate goal of a staff training policy is to have fully trained staff who can ensure continuity in the museum’s operations and can implement sound museological practice. Board of Management’s or Museum Committee’s Role The museum board or committee should take an active role in seeking out training opportunities and in making sure that staff members can participate in these activities. This could include accessing funding for or paying the costs of courses or seminars, encouraging staff to attend or giving some other form of compensation. Ideally, a budget needs to be established for staff training and development. Areas of knowledge Training may be required for: Museum operations and administration Documentation procedures Packing and handling procedures Care of collections and Conservation Staff and site management Marketing, Public Relations and Evaluation Interpretation and education programs Exhibition design Financial planning and fundraising Digitisation of collections Museum security Cultural planning Resources Training needs may be met through: Workshops Seminars In-house training sessions In-house library of books and periodicals on museology Conferences Internships Visits and study tours Meetings of regional museums groups Audio-visual education kits University/college courses Museums studies programs Professional exchanges Active participation in professional associations Use of information technology and professional literature to keep abreast of professional developments and policies in direct and related areas. References and further reading: The Ontario Ministry of Culture and Communications, Ontario Museum Notes: Practical Information on Operating a Community Museum, Number 10 Developing a Staff Training Policy Edith Cowan University, Certificate in Museum Studies and Weekend Workshops