Context
Getting students out into the field is a great way to combine exploration and engaging with primary sources. A simple example could be a trip to an exhibit where you will find a myriad of possible information/sources that will help us uncover past and present history in the making. With the iPad, we can easily load up apps such as Google (including the Lens option) to quickly find out what the source is about, and have students log their learning.
Preparation and Flow
On a trip out to a location or even using sources in class/school, get students to identify the sources they are looking at by pulling out the Google App and capture a shot.
Utilising the image recognition and vast information base, we can source out items such as the origin, author, and related information that will help students uncover what the source is about.
Next have students verify the information with other sources. We could have students in different groups search related sources to corroborate the findings.
This hands-on approach makes history less of a remembering the facts, as opposed to actively investigate and evaluate the information presented.
Possible Extension
We could start a "big history" type project where different groups of students cover different aspects of say Singapore's path to independence in 1965. With the release of more sources related to this story, it is a exciting time to relook how we can enthuse students with the process, rather than than "memorising" (let's not do that shall we?)
From the LearnGrowCreate Team.
Main author: Thomas
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