The idea of found objects derives from taking things designed for another purpose and turning them into art: Picasso’s bull’s head made from bicycle parts is a famous example. The principle for teaching is the same: find something interesting and use it as stimulus for a lesson. 

Although it is possible to generate interaction merely by displaying a ‘found object’, we also need to develop lesson frameworks and teaching strategies which help us to shape this into a learning experience. 

In this workshop Luke Meddings explores ways to build memorable lessons and lesson sequences using non-‘teaching’ stimulus that is readily available to teachers and learners in the UK and elsewhere. As we do this, we'll look at some key questions, including:

• Is there a difference between 'stimulus' and 'materials' in the classroom?
• How much structure should we provide - and how do we find a balance between direction and support?  
• What are the pros and cons of verbal and non-verbal stimulus?
• How can learners be encouraged to source their own objects?
• How can found objects be used to inspire project work?