Ecomuseums in China: Challenges and Defects to the Existing Practical Framework

Abstract

This paper examines the shortcomings of the existing practical framework of ecomuseums in China. The social context of China’s ecomuseum practice is critically analysed and elaborated to show the particularity of community and community participation in the Chinese context. In this context, the framework of Chinese ecomuseum practice is critically examined to illustrate the defects. This study is based on a literature analysis; the existing Chinese and English literature on the theory and practice of ecomuseums in China has been critically reviewed and analysed. The study found that the existing framework lacks people-oriented long-term development goals and a precise definition of roles of all parties, which has resulted in a dilemma for relationship of ecomuseums and communities in the country. Based on existing studies on ecomuseums in China and other areas, the study also offers corresponding suggestions to modify the existing framework.