Object-based learning: active learning through enquiry

Dale, V. , Tasler, N. and Sánchez-Jáuregui, L. (2022) Object-based learning: active learning through enquiry. In: Betts, T. and Oprandi, P. (eds.) 100 Ideas for Active Learning. University of Sussex Library: Falmer, Brighton, UK, pp. 566-574. ISBN 9780995786271 (doi: 10.20919/OPXR1032/69)

Abstract

Object-Based Learning (OBL) is a well-established teaching method; Korda (2020), for example, documents how objects were used in 19th century school teaching in Europe. However, it is only relatively recently that its potential has been recognised in UK higher education, popularised by the work of Chatterjee et al. (2011). It has been defined as ‘a mode of education which involves the active integration of objects into the learning environment’ (Chatterjee et al., 2016, p.1). The University of Glasgow Hunterian Museum’s extensive collections lend themselves to enquiry-based learning across the disciplines. This gives us a unique opportunity to introduce OBL within our Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PGCAP), in our Creative Pedagogies for Active Learning course. In partnership with museum colleagues, this raises awareness of the potential for its use in learning and teaching in various degree subjects. OBL supports active participation through aisthesis (Bleakley, 1999) and embodied learning (Chatterjee et al., 2016); the combining of the working with the head (cognitive dimension), the hands (psychomotor dimension), and the heart (affective dimension); thus, it is a powerful pedagogy for facilitating critical thinking and behaviour change. This chapter defines OBL, and using examples from practice, illustrates how it may be used online and on campus, not only drawing upon specific collections, but also everyday objects that stimulate inquiry and active learning.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Sanchez-Jauregui, Lola and Dale, Dr Vicki and Tasler, Dr Nathalie
• Authors: Dale, V., Tasler, N., and Sánchez-Jáuregui, L.
• Subjects: L Education > L Education (General); L Education > LB Theory and practice of education; L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education
• College/School: University Services > Learning and Teaching Services Division; University Services > Library and Collection Services > Museum and Art Gallery; University Services > Student and Academic Services > Academic Services
• Publisher: University of Sussex Library
• ISBN: 9780995786271
• Published Online: 20 July 2022
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2022 The Authors
• First Published: First published in 100 Ideas for Active Learning: 566-574
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License

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