On the 15th of March 2023, the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art (YSMA), Pan-Atlantic University hosted an Object-Based Learning (OBL) workshop for teachers, in partnership with the EU National Institutes for Culture (EUNIC) and co-funded by the European Union.
The workshop aimed to introduce an innovative approach to teaching and support the implementation of object/art-based learning in the Nigerian classroom. The workshop was attended by 21 teachers representing 21 secondary schools across Ibeju-Lekki Lagos, and was led by a team of experienced educators from the Yemisi Shyllon Museum of Art.
During the workshop, participants were introduced to the concept of object-based learning, which involves the use of tangible and visual objects as a means of teaching various subjects, with a focus on using artworks as ‘multi-sensory thinking tools’ to create more engaging and enjoyable learning experiences.
The programme featured interactive sessions where the participants were encouraged to share their experiences and insights on how they can incorporate object-based learning into their teaching methods. They were also provided with practical tips on how to identify relevant artefacts/artworks and use them to enhance the learning experience of their students.
Speaking about the workshop, museum educator, Ms. Ebubechi Nwokoma, stated, “We are delighted to collaborate with the EU on this workshop as it aligns with our goal of increasing the relevance and contribution of museums to Nigerian education. The art museum is a great resource for teaching and learning. Art-based learning is an exciting approach that has been proven to engage and motivate students while also enhancing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.”
Ms. Babatunde Odunyemi, an English teacher at Community Junior Grammar School, who attended the workshop, expressed her excitement about the new approach to teaching. She said, “I have always thought that not all subjects require instructional materials, but this workshop has enlightened me and shown me different ways on how to use these (museum) objects to engage my students and make learning more meaningful and effective for them.”
The Object Basic Learning (OBL) workshop for teachers, co-sponsored by the European Union, has been hailed as a great success and a step in the right direction for improving the quality of education in Nigeria.
The event received positive feedback from the participants, who praised the quality of the facilitators and the interactive nature of the workshop. They also expressed enthusiasm about implementing OBL in their classrooms and appreciated the European Union’s support in organizing the event.
Dr. Jess Castellote, the museum director, presented the participants with certificates at the end of the workshop.
For more information about the workshop, please contact the museum at ysma@pau.edu.ng
