Design to Handle
Background to the Collection’s existence
Object-based learning, active and experiential teaching.
OBL (object-based learning) is a fundamental aspect of this collection as it hopes to encourage excitement and engagement with potentially overlookable areas of study. Though the objects themselves might seem simple, their philosophies, and what they represent are ambitious. Non-passive engagement with these objects aims to bring these philosophies to life, realise abstract ideas and encourage discovery and ideation through touch and sensory experience.
OBL provides a direct link with a topic or ‘the past’ and can enhance young people’s interest in and understanding of a topic/subject.
They encourage learners to use all their senses - especially touch, sight and smell.
It helps to develop the important skill of drawing conclusions based on an examination of evidence.
They are ideal for generating group and class discussions.
In this case specifically, OBL aims to promote the value of experimental approaches to material development and making, encouraging design speculators to deploy workmanship of risk based on a variety of fields of design study outside of mainstream design, looking into practices old and new. As such
further their learning with understanding and care, with remembered practices and sustainable outcomes, better for us and our planet.
Please note that OBL is there to encourage non-passive learning, and proactive engagement that does not replace other teaching practices, but is there to compliment and enhance them.