Inspired by Creativity: Using archives and special collections to embed object-based learning in your teaching practice.

Brief description of session and activities

This session aims to provide staff with an introduction to the University Archives and Special Collections Centre, while the T&L day is being held at LCC.  We aim to show a tailored selection of items from the broad selection of archives and collections held here, and to provide information about how tutors can book time for their students to engage with archives as part of their courses.   This is in line with the LTE strategic objective, which has the aim of embedding object-based learning in teaching, learning and enhancement at UAL.     This session engages the conference theme because it will demonstrate the creative use of collections to support student learning.  It will show how taking a risk with the delivery of support for the curriculum by introducing object-based learning, reaps benefits for students’ learning. Feedback from students who have engaged with archives and collections is positive, for example; ‘the important thing is that it is helping me to think’ and ‘thank you for showing us the great things in the collections and letting us actually touch them. It really makes a difference.’   The proposal complements the proposal for ‘Researching skilfully through archives’ which will be put forward by Graham Barton and Judy Willcocks.

Introduction to the ASCC and how to access it. Explanation of the value and application of archives both in terms of object-based learning and inspiration.  

Archive staff will demonstrate a tour of selected archive material from the collections at ASCC, which will be set out on a table in the search room.  This will replicate the way in which archive staff introduce the archive collections to students, facilitating an understanding of object-based learning through archives.   Staff will be able to participate by handling the objects and discussing them with archive colleagues. Reference will be made to previous case studies of object-based learning which have referenced archives and special collections at the ASCC and around the university.

Staff will be encouraged to discuss how they could make use of a guided introduction to the archives in their course programmes, providing students with a focused engagement with archives.  This will demonstrate the value of archives in embedding object-based learning, as well as their inspirational power.    

Will students be involved in the session? If so how?

It is not planned that students will be involved in this session.

What will participants take away from the session?

An understanding of: - how archives and special collections at the University can be embedded in the curriculum through object-based learning.   - the range of collections in the ASCC - how to gain access to the ASCC.