Teaching Archives and Museum Studies: Using Collections in the Classroom to Enhance Learning Outcomes

Key Points

• To explore how using primary sources in teaching art history can improve learning outcomes and connect students with cultural heritage work.
• Conducted an upper-division art history course within a university's library special collections unit.
• Utilized primary source materials and rare items to teach course content effectively.
• Aligned course learning outcomes with cultural heritage practices of archives, libraries, and museums.
• Demonstrated improved student engagement and understanding of art history concepts through hands-on access to archival materials.
• Enhanced connection between theoretical knowledge and practical archival work in cultural heritage settings.
• Highlighted the benefits of integrating archives into educational curricula.