Primary Sources

In an earlier post I talked about the power of learning from the “Thing Itself”. The classroom environment is usually a permanent place inside a building where outside excursions require more money and resources than available to most teachers. Since time travel isn’t possible, just yet, there is a program available that is the next best thing. This program provides a way for students to experience the “Thing Itself” without leaving the classroom.

I am referring to the Library of Congress-Teaching with Primary Resources program available to all educators. At the University of Northern Colorado, we have a unit of dedicated staff members providing outstanding free professional development designed by educators for educators. The Colorado program, Teaching with Primary Sources – Colorado Rural Partnership, introduces educators to many student- centered learning experiences that not only improve 21st century literacy skills but use actual records that have survived from the past, like letters, photographs, articles of clothing, and music.

Workshops are schedule in October and November and lunch is provided. Don’t miss this unbelievable opportunity. Contact information for these workshops is available at, http://www.unco.edu/primarysources/MainWebsite/AboutUs/staff.html.