Reflection from innovative pedagogies series: Wow: The power of objects in object-based learning and teaching Dr Kirsten Hardie (2015), Associate Professor Arts University Bournemouth.
This was a paper provided prior to my micro-teaching session which I found incredibly informative. It helped me to recognise the importance of object-based learning in a creative teaching practices.
In my role as a senior lecturer on BA Textile Design at Central Saint Martins, I have observed how objects can stimulate conversation by allowing you to analyse their form, function, and how they relate to your design practice.
Having read Wow: The power of objects in object-based learning and teaching Dr Kirsten Hardie (2015), Associate Professor Arts University Bournemouth, I can now better analyse and theorise why I have been using objects as part of my pedagogical practice.
As Dr Kirsten Hardie writes: “Traditionally, design objects encased and showcased in museums have provided a key resource for design undergraduates to learn about design and its related history and contexts. In many instances objects may be seen but not touched. Likewise books, websites and digital databases present objects for study: rich resources, however, the physical handling of an item is denied.” (Hardie, 2015, p. 7).
I counter this statement by offering students the opportunity to physically touch and handle objects as part of my sessions. Through their interaction with these objects, I believe this experience is integral to their understanding, as it facilitates discussions around materiality, construction and the techniques used. It allows them to comprehend how these pieces are made and the narratives they represent. I often use my own collection of textiles, which I feel opens up a more personal dialogue. This allows students to feel more comfortable and be more inquisitive about what they are handling.
These objects are the starting point of a curated workshop. However, by the end of the session, students frequently realise that their responses to these objects inspire their own body of work and design approach going forward.
References:
Hardie, K., 2015. Innovative pedagogies series: Wow: The power of objects in object-based learning and teaching. Higher Education Academy, pp.1-24.