Children’s Studies, Archives Literacy, and Cultural Contexts: Designing Teaching for Academic Library Learning

Abstract

This article examines the development of a bespoke primary source literacy module for the study of childhood in Ireland. The BA (Children's Studies) at National University of Ireland Galway is a unique interdisciplinary degree that equips students with a theoretical and practical understanding of the lives of children and childhood today. The course features an embedded archives literacy component, which is the first for an academic library collaboration in Ireland. This article traces the theoretical background to the bespoke design of the archives literacy framework, the pedagogical methodology, learning outcomes, and student feedback as part of the module delivery. It explains critical learning tools developed through an archives literacy learning prism and supported by a blended learning and “flipped assignment” methodology, designed specifically for the module. The article discusses the importance of the archive content within the course design and student assessment, which enabled diverse projects and collaborative learning through digital and print/manuscript content. Finally, it outlines how the program contributed to realizing the academic library and wider university academic learning mission as well as aiding student learning and critical thinking.

Keywords:

• Academic collaboration
• archives literacy
• critical thinking
• flipped assignments
• primary source literacy
• source centred teaching

Acknowledgement

The author would like to thank Dr. Michal Molcho for help and support and for the opportunity to teach on the Children's Studies programme at NUI Galway.