The purpose of this project is to engage 8th-grade students in a hands-on exploration of leadership through the creation of a virtual museum. By analyzing primary sources and learning web design, students will deepen their understanding of historical figures' leadership qualities and how these have shaped ideas and beliefs. This project fosters critical thinking, self-directed learning, and a sense of identity as students collaboratively curate exhibits and present their findings to the community. Through this immersive experience, students will develop skills in research, digital technology, and reflective practices, preparing them to articulate and share their insights on leadership with broader audiences.
Learning goals
Students will develop skills in analyzing primary sources to identify leadership qualities and historical perspectives. They will learn basic web design and coding to create a virtual museum, enhancing their technical and creative capabilities. Through collaboration and community engagement, students will refine their ability to present and communicate complex ideas, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This project will also encourage self-directed learning and reflection on personal growth and academic mindset.
Standards
[National Core Arts Standards] VA:Pr6.1.8a - Analyze why and how an exhibition or collection may influence ideas, beliefs, and experiences.
[National Core Arts Standards] VA:Pr5.1.8a - Collaboratively prepare and present selected theme-based artwork for display and formulate exhibition narratives for the viewer.
[National Council for the Social Studies] D4.3.6-8 - Present adaptations of arguments and explanations on topics of interest to others to reach audiences and venues outside the classroom using print and oral technologies (e.g., posters, essays, letters, debates, speeches, reports, and maps) and digital technologies (e.g., Internet, social media, and digital documentary).
Competencies
Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
Products
Students will collaboratively create a virtual museum website showcasing curated exhibits on leadership, drawing from their analysis of primary sources. Throughout the project, they will develop digital portfolios documenting their research, coding skills, and exhibit narratives. The final product will be presented during a virtual exhibition day, where students will guide visitors through their exhibits, demonstrating their understanding of leadership and historical perspectives.
Launch
Begin the project with a virtual or in-person field trip to a local museum, focusing on exhibits that highlight leadership throughout history. During the visit, students will engage with museum docents to discuss how exhibits are curated and the impact they have on audiences. This experience will inspire students to think critically about how they can use their own virtual museum to convey the diverse stories and qualities of historical leaders. After the trip, students will participate in a brainstorming session to identify key themes and figures they wish to explore in their virtual museum, setting the stage for their research and design work.
Exhibition
Organize a Showcase Night where students present their virtual leadership museums to family, peers, and community members, offering guided tours through their curated exhibits. This event will include interactive sessions where visitors can engage with the digital content and ask students questions about their research and design process. Additionally, incorporate a live-streamed component for broader community access, ensuring that students can reach audiences beyond the physical space.
Copied from
Leaders Unlocked: A Virtual Exhibit Adventure
