ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the ways in which a combination of progressive pedagogical practice and progressive political views can practically facilitate efforts of museums to support social growth towards democracy and inclusiveness. The practical means that are employed to develop more progressive pedagogy are often associated with dramatic changes in the way visitors are empowered to make meaning out of their museum experiences. Progressive education has a long history in museums as well as schools, and deserves the support of all who value democracy. If museums want to promote democracy and social justice, they need to examine their own structure and ask to what extent it reflects the kind of society they want to promote. The historical progressive museum activities presented here serve as inspiration for all of our work and sustain us in times when progressive action is challenging. A recent phenomenon that affects museum structure is the increasing contribution of technological innovations that incorporate virtual experiences into museum world.
