Research Update: What I've Learned & What I Still Need To Learn

Currently, the core of my thesis is focused on the use of an English Common Press reconstruction as an educational object. Accordingly, I've been looking into scholarly work on museum-based learning. More specifically, I'm examining methods for & perspectives on education through objects, interactive education, and education which utilizes interpretation. One of the things I've learned is that the museum field’s current perspective on using an object for interpretive educational purposes is essentially a 3-part process. First, one would want to begin by focusing on the physicality of the object. Next, one would use information related to said object to move toward examining the people who would be connected to the object, and these people's actions. Finally, one would transition to examining the broader ideas which are relevant to the object and to the aforementioned individuals.
Throughout this entire process, however, it is important to make a connection with the modern viewer or visitor. This seems to be where my research on interaction and interpretation will be helpful. I've gathered multiple sources which delve into the topic of interpretation, including the types which are facilitated by a docent or a 1st or 3rd-person interpreter. This is also where my investigation into museum theater is starting to help. By creating a reconstructed printing press, we're taking an object that is generally unusable due to its age, and providing one which is fully operational. I'm currently of the opinion that having a costumed interpreter operate the press while engaging with visitors could be quite beneficial for visitor education. We actually had this experience at the The Printing Office of Edes & Gill, where we talked to an interpreter named Hannah about the replica press which she was operating.

Interpreter Hannah with the Ralph Green replica press at The Printing Office of Edes & Gill

One area which I certainly need to explore more deeply is that of scholarly data pertaining to the history and creation of the English Common Press. I have learned some useful information, of course, during my time working on the project, especially when assisting with on-site research at the museums and historical societies we've visited. This was especially true when I looked through & duplicated about half a dozen folders of documents held at the Exeter Historical Society and the Vermont History Museum. During this research, I actually have the opportunity to examine some fascinating primary source materials from both Elizabeth Harris and Clinton Sisson, in which they discussed the provenance of the Dresden Press.

The Dresden Press at the Vermont History Museum

I still need more historical information, however, if I want to provide a sufficient understanding of the press in the earlier, foundational part of my thesis. Currently, I plan to obtain this knowledge and information through various methods. I’m going to interview Seth Gottlieb, another member of the Uncommon Press team, since he has been the primary historical researcher for the project. Seth also has at least one scholarly source that he plans to share with me, which I expect will serve to further enhance my understanding of the subject.

Uncommon Press Team Photo (Seth, Ferris, Veronica, Daniel, Randy)