Research project

Remembering Titanic: Interdisciplinary place-based education about the Titanic disaster for Southampton students

Research groups:
Lead researchers:

Dr Wonyong Park
Other researchers:

Dr Neta Shaby,

Mrs Rachele Newman
Status:

Not active

Project overview

Learning about local history can be beneficial to future citizens, by stimulating place attachment and civic engagement, and providing an authentic experience of doing history. At the same time, awareness of the importance of integrating informal and outdoors learning environments into the curriculum has been on the rise. Focusing on the integration of formal and informal education to teach the local history of RMS Titanic, researchers at the University of Southampton work with history and science teachers from Southampton schools and museum educators at SeaCity Museum to develop a curriculum unit focused on the history of Titanic and Southampton for Key Stage 3 pupils.

The curriculum development is guided by the principles of (a) integration of school subjects (Science and History), (b) integration of school-based and out-of-school learning, (c) place-based learning and (d) disaster and tragedy education. The project has positively impacted teachers’ and museum educators’ perceptions about the benefits of cross-subject collaboration and informal learning experiences in facilitating young people’s knowledge of and interest in their community. The final products of the project will be disseminated to local schools and shared online for broader impact.