How to engage participants in historic spaces through inquiry and facilitation

The Art Engager

In today's episode, Dr. Stephanie Smith, Learning Manager at the Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD) in Canberra, shares insights into MoAD's innovative approach to engaging visitors in historical spaces.

Steph talks about MoAD's educational programmes, focusing on their inquiry-based approach and how they encourage an 'inquiry mindset' through active student participation.

We also explore the team's teaching methods and how they use intentional and scaffolded open-ended questions to spark student curiosity and participation. We discuss the importance of making students feel heard, encouraging them to share thoughts, and creating a positive, participatory learning environment.

We also talk about MoAD's unique professional development model, built on collaboration, continuous learning, and reflective practices. We explore 'slow looking pd' where the team think and learn together by reflecting on various provocations and questions (including episodes of The Art Engager!). 'Slow Looking PD' is a deliberate practice that helps the team at MoAD to improve how they teach and support students.

Throughout the episode, Steph shares lots of strategies for student engagement and reflective growth. Whether you're interested in engaging with students, innovative teaching methods, or a facilitation-focused approach to team PD, there are so many takeaways from this episode.

Links

https://www.moadoph.gov.au/

Museum Educators Facebook group

Instagram @stephi_smith_inquirer