Teaching with the collections, University of Sydney Library

Teaching with the collections

Object Based Learning with Rare Books and Special Collections

Library-led classes

Object Based Learning involves direct engagement with artefacts, artworks, archival material, and digitised versions of these materials. Students are guided through activities that develop their skills in contextual analysis, interdisciplinary research, and peer-to-peer learning. By developing these skills, Object Based Learning can enhance students’ understanding and engagement with their major subject area.

Object Based Learning sessions may include:

Direct engagement with objects to understand their make and materials
Discussion of the provenance of objects to learn about and critique primary sources, authorship, historical canons, and knowledge sharing
Opportunities to consider the value and significance of objects within historical and present-day contexts
Challenges to assumptions, which can motivate students to explore new hypotheses

Object Based Learning is not just for the Humanities

Rare Books and Special Collections contains a wide variety of materials relevant to many disciplines.

We offer in-person and online Object Based Learning sessions

If you would like to book a session for your unit of study or find out more, please contact Rare Books and Special Collections rbsc@usyd.libanswers.com.

Academic-led classes

If you would like to access Rare Books and Special Collections (RBSC) materials (including East Asian collections) in a unit of study class or assignment, RBSC staff can assist with item selection and class logistics.

If you would like to enquire about using RBSC materials in your teaching, please contact Rare Books and Special Collections rbsc@usyd.libanswers.com.

Submit an enquiry to RBSC if you would like to teach using the collections