Description:
On Belonging: Object based learning to build Equity literacy.
This staff development workshop invites educators to strengthen their equity literacy through object-based learning activities focused on belonging and identity. Grounded in participants lived experiences, the session offers a reflective and participatory space to explore how we can foster authentic and meaningful engagement with students around these themes.
Part 1: Participatory activity.
Participants are invited to bring an object that represents their identity — this might reflect aspects such as culture, language, race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexuality, disability, age, class, profession, or personal experiences. It could also connect to memories, geography and place, family, relationships and kinship, generation, or experiences of privilege. Through a story circle technique, they will experience object-based learning (OBL) first-hand, using their objects as catalysts for storytelling and dialogue where curiosity, compassion, and openness are intentionally cultivated to support respectful and, at times, challenging conversations about identity and belonging.
Part 2: Frameworks application and reflection.
Facilitator will introduce the object-based learning framework and pedagogy, guiding participants to explore how this framework can be applied in their own teaching—for example, in group work, icebreakers, interdisciplinary projects, or reflective activities. The session concludes with a guided reflection on integrating these practices into teaching and sharing insights for continued development.
By the end of the session, staff will have:
- Experienced an object-based learning process centred on belonging and identity.
- Reflected on their own equity literacy and its role in creating inclusive learning environments.
- Gained a practical framework for integrating object-based methods into their teaching, adaptable across disciplines and learning contexts.
5 to 10 pp.
2 hours long
PADLET for the workshop:
https://artslondon.padlet.org/mgravagno1/obl-on-identity-and-belonging-zk1j5ls3de3sdimy
IMAGES from the workshop:
- Examples of objects brought by participants embodying identity and belonging.
- Workshop set up.
- Examples of materials shared and booklet design.
- Examples of participants’ notes and responses
References
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