Encyclopedia “Literary Museums of Russia” in the educational process of training museologists

Abstract

The article reveals the possibilities of using the encyclopedia “Literary Museums of Russia” as an information resource in the process of training museologists in undergraduate and graduate educational programs in the field of “Museology and protection of cultural and natural heritage objects”. A unique encyclopedic publication dedicated to a specialized group of museums is considered from the point of view of its educational potential. The representativeness of a carefully compiled bibliography is noted as an important element of the scientific reference apparatus, so necessary in the research process, which is the most important component of university education. A wide range of museological disciplines is outlined, in the process of studying which it is advisable to refer to encyclopedia articles. The thematic structure and content of the course “Literary Museums”, introduced into the educational program for bachelor’s training, implemented by the Department of Museology and Cultural Heritage of the St. Petersburg State Institute of Culture since 2010 is revealed. The experience of teaching the specialized discipline is analyzed, the need to refer to generalizing articles of the encyclopedia in the process of independent mastering educational material by students. The heuristic and cognitive potential of the encyclopedia is stated, which is not limited to its use in a course devoted to literary museums. An interdisciplinary approach, a solid source base, rich and informative illustrative material, a significant block of articles about outstanding figures of science and culture in Russia, carefully verified historical information, including about the literary process as part of the cultural development of the country from ancient times to the present, its documentation and representation in the museum allow us to conclude that this work will be in wide demand in the field of Russian higher education in the humanities.