SCHOOLS are being encouraged to participate in a new education programme that brings a virtual museum experience to children.
Museum on the Move is a remote learning programme designed as an exciting and multi-layered alternative to the traditional visit.
It offers live, interactive sessions delivered via video link by the museum's education team.
Pupils also get the chance to investigate real objects offered on loan by National Museums NI.
It is being rolled out following a successful pilot scheme in 10 schools.
National Museums NI's education team works in partnership with the teacher to guide their class through an investigation of historic objects.
Teachers receive learning resources and materials with each loan box of museum objects. These are delivered and picked up by museum staff, following Covid-secure protocols.
The team also helps to encourage the children to complete tasks, give feedback, ask questions, and share their creative responses. Live delivery is enhanced with short films on a variety of themes and with audio from National Museums NI's sound archive.
"After a really encouraging response to our pilot scheme we want to continue the programme in other school schools as all children return to the classroom. We understand how challenging the learning environment is and the programme is positioned to bring unique learning experiences into the classroom in an engaging and safe way," said National Museum NI's Education Manager, Louise Rice.
"Enhancing and supporting education is at the very heart of National Museums NI, and our collections connect to all areas of the NI curriculum. We have thousands of stories that can spark imaginations and empower children to explore their own curiosity and share discovery.
"We hope we can support teachers during these challenging times to bring variety to the classroom not only virtually but also with the real historical artefacts they get to see and feel as part of the programme."
Luke McCollum, a teacher involved in the pilot programme from Carnalbanagh PS in Co Antrim said it was a fantastic opportunity for his class to experience something new in a time when opportunities for learning outside the classroom or for visitors to come to school are so limited.
"The children loved interacting with the programme facilitators - they were engaged and challenged," he said.
"The resources provided added a fantastic visual aid which we were able to make use of over a couple of weeks and brought about much discussion and learning amongst the children."
Hannah McCaughey, a teacher from St Comgall’s PS in Bangor, said P5 pupils were "transported to another time and world" when learning about ancient Egypt.
"Having a range of artefacts in their own hands was a powerful experience, along with a live expert archaeologist there to explain their significance," she said.
"In a time when children are home or classroom-bound, these experiences are very meaningful. Looking forward, since budgets are often limited to once yearly trips, the opportunity to bring history, science and geography alive in classrooms more often throughout the school year is invaluable."
Numerous schools have since enrolled in the scheme and National Museums NI is encouraging others that wish to participate to register their interest, as places are limited. To find out how to
participate in the programme, email: education@nmni.com.
