South African Museums Association Bulletin

Scope & Guideline

Exploring the Past: Shaping the Future of South African Museums

Introduction

Welcome to your portal for understanding South African Museums Association Bulletin, featuring guidelines for its aims and scope. Our guidelines cover trending and emerging topics, identifying the forefront of research. Additionally, we track declining topics, offering insights into areas experiencing reduced scholarly attention. Key highlights include highly cited topics and recently published papers, curated within these guidelines to assist you in navigating influential academic dialogues.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0370-8314
PublisherSOUTH AFRICAN MUSEUMS ASSOC
Support Open AccessNo
CountrySouth Africa
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2019 to 2022
AbbreviationS AFR MUS ASSOC BULL / S. Afr. Mus. Assoc. Bull.
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressPO BOX 699 GRAHAMSTOWN, EAST CAPE 6140, SOUTH AFRICA

Aims and Scopes

The South African Museums Association Bulletin focuses on the intersection of museums with social, cultural, and educational dynamics within South Africa and beyond. Its core objectives emphasize the role of museums in society, particularly in relation to historical narratives, identity, and the decolonization of collections and practices.
  1. Cultural Heritage and Identity:
    The journal examines how museums serve as custodians of cultural heritage and how they shape and reflect identities within contemporary South African society.
  2. Decolonization of Museum Practices:
    A significant focus is placed on the decolonization of museum policies and practices, addressing historical injustices and reinterpreting collections in a manner that respects and acknowledges indigenous narratives.
  3. Museum Education and Technology:
    The journal emphasizes innovative educational strategies in museums, exploring how technology can enhance learning experiences and support global sustainable development goals.
  4. Dark Tourism and Memory:
    There is a growing interest in the role of museums as sites of dark tourism, examining how they engage with difficult histories and the implications for memory and identity.
  5. Visitor Engagement and Feedback:
    The journal also addresses the importance of visitor feedback in shaping museum practices and enhancing visitor experiences, reinforcing the notion of museums as community-centered spaces.
The South African Museums Association Bulletin is witnessing a dynamic evolution of themes that reflect current societal and cultural discussions. Recent publications highlight emerging trends that are shaping the future of museum practices.
  1. Decolonial Practices and Epistemic Repatriation:
    There is a significant increase in publications addressing the need for decolonial practices and the moral responsibility of museums to engage in epistemic repatriation, reflecting a broader global movement towards justice in cultural heritage.
  2. Integration of Technology in Museum Education:
    The integration of information communication technology in educational strategies is becoming a prominent theme, highlighting the importance of digital engagement in enhancing learning experiences.
  3. Critical Engagement with Power Structures:
    Emerging discussions critically analyze the power dynamics within museums, particularly how inherited colonial collections can influence contemporary practices and societal narratives.
  4. Reflections on Dark Tourism:
    The exploration of museums as dark tourism destinations is gaining traction, indicating a growing interest in how museums can navigate and represent difficult histories while engaging with visitors on complex themes.

Declining or Waning

While the journal has maintained a robust focus on several key themes, certain areas appear to be declining in prominence. These waning themes suggest a shift in the journal's priorities or the interests of its contributors.
  1. Traditional Exhibition Practices:
    There is a noticeable decrease in discussions surrounding conventional exhibition methods, indicating a possible shift towards more interactive and participatory approaches to museum displays.
  2. Colonial Narratives in Museum Contexts:
    The focus on colonial narratives and their representation in museums seems to be waning, as the discourse increasingly emphasizes decolonization and the reclamation of indigenous voices.
  3. General Museum Management:
    Topics related to general museum management strategies and operations have become less frequent, suggesting that the journal is prioritizing more critical and socially engaged discussions over administrative concerns.

Similar Journals

Social Dynamics-A Journal of African Studies

Fostering Dialogue on Africa's Evolving Narratives
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0253-3952Frequency: 3 issues/year

Social Dynamics: A Journal of African Studies, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, serves as a vital platform for discourse on contemporary issues affecting the African continent. With an ISSN of 0253-3952 and an E-ISSN of 1940-7874, this journal has been disseminating high-quality research since 1975 and converges through to 2024. It holds a commendable standing within the academic community, ranked in the Q3 quartile of social sciences and positioned at #344 out of 604 in its Scopus category. The journal aims to explore interdisciplinary themes that resonate within the social sciences, offering insights on the dynamic cultural, political, and economic landscapes of Africa. While the journal currently does not offer Open Access, its contributions remain indispensable for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to engage with the complexities of African studies and global implications. The journal's address is 2-4 Park Square, Milton Park, Abingdon OX14 4RN, Oxon, England, underscoring its commitment to scholarly excellence from the UK.

International Journal of the Inclusive Museum

Transforming museum practices for a global audience.
Publisher: Common Ground Research NetworksISSN: 1835-2014Frequency: 2 issues/year

The International Journal of the Inclusive Museum, published by Common Ground Research Networks, is a leading scholarly journal that focuses on the intersections of museum studies, conservation, and inclusivity in cultural institutions. With an ISSN of 1835-2014 and E-ISSN 1835-2022, this journal has achieved an impressive Q1 ranking in both Conservation and Museology categories, reflecting its significant impact on the field since its inception in 2008. Covering a diverse range of topics related to museum practices, visitor engagement, and heritage studies, the journal provides a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students passionate about advancing inclusive practices in museums globally. As an important resource in the academic community, it contributes to the ongoing conversation on how museums can become more accessible and relevant to diverse audiences in the contemporary landscape.

BULLETIN OF THE SCHOOL OF ORIENTAL AND AFRICAN STUDIES-UNIVERSITY OF LONDON

Fostering Scholarly Exchange on Global Cultural Interactions
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 0041-977XFrequency: 3 issues/year

BULLETIN OF THE SCHOOL OF ORIENTAL AND AFRICAN STUDIES-UNIVERSITY OF LONDON, published by Cambridge University Press, stands as a pivotal journal in the fields of Cultural Studies and History, with an impressive track record dating back to its inception in 1917. With a current impact factor that places it in the Q2 quartile for both categories, this journal gives voice to a rich tapestry of research dedicated to the complexities of Eastern and African societies. Researchers exploring the nuances of cultural interactions, historical developments, and socio-political dynamics will find this publication invaluable, as it offers peer-reviewed articles that contribute significantly to the academia surrounding these diverse fields. Although the journal is not open access, it continues to attract a dedicated readership due to its rigorous scholarly standards and reputation for quality. The BULLETIN also boasts a noteworthy Scopus ranking, reflecting its influence and reach within the global academic community. Located in the United Kingdom, the journal serves as a hub for international scholarly exchange, encouraging contributions that delve into the rich heritage and contemporary issues of Oriental and African studies.

JAHRBUCH DER BERLINER MUSEEN

Connecting Research and Cultural Heritage
Publisher: GEBR MANN VERLAGISSN: 0075-2207Frequency: 1 issue/year

JAHRBUCH DER BERLINER MUSEEN, published by GEBR MANN VERLAG, is a prestigious journal dedicated to the study and presentation of art, culture, and history as showcased in Berlin's museums. With a rich history dating back several years, this journal serves as a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students interested in the multifaceted aspects of museum studies and cultural heritage. Although its coverage in Scopus was discontinued after 2010, it remains a significant platform for disseminating scholarly articles, exhibition reviews, and discussions surrounding museum practices and exhibitions in Germany. The journal not only contributes to academic discourse but also acts as a bridge between scholarly research and public engagement in cultural institutions. For those keen on exploring the intersection of art and scholarship within the German context, JAHRBUCH DER BERLINER MUSEEN represents an invaluable reference point.

Museum History Journal

Advancing Interdisciplinary Dialogue in Museum Studies
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1936-9816Frequency: 2 issues/year

Museum History Journal, published by Routledge Journals, a leading name in scholarly publishing under Taylor & Francis Ltd, serves as an essential platform for advancing knowledge in the fields of conservation, history, and museology. With its ISSN 1936-9816 and E-ISSN 1936-9824, the journal has established its presence in the United Kingdom and offers valuable insights from 2008 to 2024. Currently listed in the Q3 quartile for Conservation, History, and Museology categories, it ranks 677th in History and maintains a commendable percentile of 61% within the Arts and Humanities. Aimed at researchers, professionals, and students, the Museum History Journal strives to promote interdisciplinary dialogue and critical examination of museum practices, historical narratives, and conservation techniques, thereby contributing significantly to the academic discourse surrounding museums and cultural heritage. Access to this journal is crucial for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the evolving role of museums in society.

MUSEOLOGIA SCIENTIFICA

Exploring Innovative Practices in Science Museums
Publisher: ASSOC NAZIONALE MUSEI SCIISSN: 1123-265XFrequency: 1 issue/year

MUSEOLOGIA SCIENTIFICA is a distinguished journal dedicated to the study and advancement of museology, published by the ASSOCIAZIONE NAZIONALE MUSEI SCIENTIFICI in Italy. Focusing on a wide array of topics within the realm of science museums, the journal offers rich insights and research findings that shape the future of museum practices and education. Although currently not an open-access publication, MUSEOLOGIA SCIENTIFICA provides a vital platform for scholars, practitioners, and students interested in the preservation, curation, and display of scientific artifacts. By contributing to the discourse on innovative museum practices, the journal plays a crucial role in enhancing the professional standards within the field while promoting collaboration among museums worldwide. We invite researchers and practitioners alike to explore its valuable content, aimed at broadening understanding and knowledge in the ever-evolving landscape of museology.

South African Theatre Journal

Connecting Cultures through Performance Studies
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1013-7548Frequency: 3 issues/year

South African Theatre Journal, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is an essential platform for researchers and practitioners in the fields of Visual Arts and Performing Arts. With an ISSN of 1013-7548 and an E-ISSN of 2163-7660, this journal has been contributing to the discourse on diverse theatrical practices and performance studies since its inception in 1996. The journal's focus encompasses a variety of topics, including but not limited to, South African theatre, intercultural performance, and the impact of socio-political contexts on artistic expression. Although it does not currently offer open access, its significance is reflected in its Q3 category in Visual Arts and Performing Arts and a ranking of #449/667 in the Scopus Arts and Humanities sector, positioning it as a noteworthy resource for scholars striving to explore and analyze the rich tapestry of theatrical work in South Africa. The South African Theatre Journal serves as a vital conduit for critical engagement and scholarly dialogue, making it indispensable for students, researchers, and professionals dedicated to the advancement of performing arts research.

Journal of Heritage Tourism

Exploring the Intersection of Heritage and Travel
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1743-873XFrequency: 6 issues/year

Journal of Heritage Tourism, published by Routledge Journals, part of Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a leading peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of heritage tourism. As a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students in the fields of History and Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Management, this journal has consistently achieved high rankings, securing a Q1 quartile in History and Q2 in Tourism for 2023. With an impressive Scopus rank of #3 out of 1760 in Arts and Humanities - History and #42 out of 146 in Business - Tourism, it underscores the journal’s importance and relevance in contemporary scholarship. Spanning contributions from 2006 to 2024, the journal provides a platform for innovative research, critical discussions, and comprehensive analyses, fostering a greater understanding of the complex relationships between heritage and tourism. Although it does not currently offer open access, insights published within this journal remain accessible for institutional libraries and academic communities worldwide, ensuring that the ongoing discourse around heritage tourism flourishes.

Safundi

Illuminating Cultural Dynamics and Historical Contexts
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1753-3171Frequency: 4 issues/year

Safundi, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a distinguished peer-reviewed journal dedicated to exploring the intersections of culture, history, and political science. Since its inception in 2000, Safundi has contributed significantly to the discourse on cultural studies, positioning itself as a vital resource for researchers and professionals alike. With an Impact Factor reflective of its rigorous scholarship, the journal is ranked in the top quartiles for cultural studies and history, showcasing its influence and authority within these fields. The journal addresses critical contemporary issues, aiming to foster a nuanced understanding of cultural dynamics and historical contexts. While access options are traditional, Safundi remains committed to disseminating pivotal research that resonates with academics and policymakers. As it continues to evolve through to 2024, Safundi serves as an indispensable platform for students and scholars seeking to contribute to the vibrant dialogue surrounding culture and its implications in our global society.

Journal of Conservation and Museum Studies

Advancing Knowledge in Conservation and Museology
Publisher: UBIQUITY PRESS LTDISSN: 2049-4572Frequency: 1 issue/year

The Journal of Conservation and Museum Studies, published by UBIQUITY PRESS LTD, is a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students engaged in the fields of conservation and museology. With an ISSN of 2049-4572 and an E-ISSN of 1364-0429, this Open Access journal has been committed to disseminating quality research since its inception in 2011. Based in the United Kingdom, the journal features a broad range of topics within its field, serving both theoretical and practical insights for the advancing of conservation practices and museum studies. The journal is highly regarded, standing in the Q2 quartile for both Conservation and Museology categories in 2023, and achieving commendable rankings in the Scopus classification, with a percentile rank of 86th in Museology and 76th in Conservation. This demonstrates its significance as a hub for scholarly communication and innovation, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural heritage. Join a diverse community of experts and access cutting-edge research in the field by engaging with this essential journal.