Approaches to Active Learning: Object Based Learning
Object-based learning (OBL) is a dynamic and engaging pedagogical approach that enriches teaching by anchoring abstract concepts in tangible (and sometimes intangible) things. It is an established practice in many arts disciplines, but has more recently been growing in use in wider fields. Through teaching with physical or digital objects like artworks, artefacts, scientific instruments, historical documents, or everyday items; OBL encourages active engagement to develop analytical, observational, and interpretive skills.
Academic and Digital Development Events
Date: Wednesday 22 October 2025
Time: 12:00 - 13:00
Venue: Online
Category: Academic events
Speaker: Dr Robyne Calvert
Object-based learning (OBL) is a dynamic and engaging pedagogical approach that enriches teaching by anchoring abstract concepts in tangible (and sometimes intangible) things. It is an established practice in many arts disciplines, but has more recently been growing in use in wider fields. Through teaching with physical or digital objects like artworks, artefacts, scientific instruments, historical documents, or everyday items; OBL encourages active engagement to develop analytical, observational, and interpretive skills.
In this session, participants will discover how OBL can foster deeper critical thinking, analytical skills, and interdisciplinary connections by encouraging learners to interpret, question, and contextualise objects within broader cultural, historical, or theoretical frameworks. Participants will learn how to adapt OBL across disciplines—from SHAPE to STEM—to promote curiosity, deepen understanding, and develop interdisciplinary thinking. They’ll gain practical strategies for integrating OBL into teaching, even in resource-limited settings, enhancing student engagement and critical inquiry skills.
This session is open to staff of the University of Glasgow. Graduate Teaching Assistants are welcome to register for the purpose of developing their own teaching practice, but please note that these sessions are not suitable for any students seeking training for their own PhD research projects. Contact your School for information on the research methods training available to you as a student. For the avoidance of doubt as to eligibility, please register using your staff email address.
Registration Link:
https://uofglasgow.zoom.us/meeting/register/s6lIwQSITh2-T5QCZbVXIQ