Resource Boxes

Introduction

Historylinks Museum has produced four multi purpose educational resource boxes for use in the classroom. The project was funded by the Scottish Museums Council (SMC) and is part of Historylinks aim to develop its education policy and establish a closer relationship with schools in Sutherland and neighbouring counties. The boxes are aimed at primary schoolchildren level and a booking can be made by downloading the booking form and sending it to the museum. The overall resource will provide teachers with a flexible and enjoyable approach to learning.

The Resource Boxes have increasingly been used in care homes and activities organised by care groups.

The heritage themes for the boxes incorporate both key elements of the museum's current exhibitions, i.e. Market and Trade and The Railway, and themes that the museum is keen to develop through oral history projects, i.e. World War Two and Nostalgia. The boxes include both local and generic information. The activities are designed to incorporate the different requirements of the older primary age group, i.e. P4-7, but the boxes will also be useful for younger age groups. In addition, the resources will address the Scottish Executive's five National Priorities in Education - Attainment and Achievement, Framework for Learning, Inclusion and Equality, Values and Citizenship, and Learning for Life.

Who will benefit from the project

Teachers

The four boxes provide a valuable addition to current classroom resources. The teacher and pupil notes are clear and concise to suit a busy classroom environment. The user friendly packs will help teachers achieve learning targets. The booking system is easy and feedback sheets provide useful information for teachers and museums.

Primary Schoolchildren

The activites will enable children to learn about historical themes, as well as different aspects of national curriculum subjects. Children will have the opportuntiy to see and hold the variety of replica objects in each box and use them in a variety of educational activities. They will develop a range of skills, including language and communication and will be involved in social interaction. It is hoped that children who use the boxes will find the learning experience to be inclusive and enjoyable.

Historylinks forward plan

Historylinks is keen to develop its education and outreach policy and focusing on the needs of schools and care groups in Sutherland and neighbouring counties.