Thirteenth International Conference on The Inclusive Museum

Abstract

Students learn best through multiple connecting points. The more connections the longer the lessons learned remain and the stronger the entire museum experience. This workshop focuses on hands on/hearts on strategies to better engage students. It is entitled, “Something in a Case or Something in a Hand.” Looking at cased artifacts has its merits, but the connective experience is limited. Durable artifacts that are safe to be handled provide richer stories and can serve as the framework for larger museum themes providing a more sustainable learning experience. Technological advances allow for increased visual and hearing opportunities, but nothing can replace the hands-on experiences for the strongest of student connections. This interactive workshop provides specific suggestions for increased student involvement. Handling artifacts such as cornhusk dolls, 18th century wisdom cards, artifact artwork and other objects bring to life the stories and the broader themes surrounding those other artifacts that cannot be handled. Upgrading displays is costly. Technology often isn’t sufficiently durable. But giving students carefully designed kinesthetic experiences is rewarding and educational on a variety of critical thinking levels. In addition, it is cost effective and fluid enough to meet the needs of specific or multiple age levels. Participant discussion and interaction will focus on meaningful low technology strategies that invite students into the learning experience both in the museum setting and afterwards in the classroom. The goal of the workshop is to provide participants with a variety of practical ways for the museum experience to be meaningful in students’ lives.