The “Open Suitcase Series” provides teachers across the province with unique and engaging resources they can use in their own classrooms, says Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Doug Currie.
“These suitcases can really bring Island history to life,” said Mr. Currie. “It’s one thing to have the information and to learn about history, but when you can look at and touch some of the artifacts that are in these suitcases, like a slate and slate pencils from an 1850's classroom, it involves the learner on a very tactile and personal level.”
This creative new program was developed over the last number of years with the staff at the Wyatt Heritage Properties along with help from curriculum experts at the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.
“I would like to congratulate those involved in this project for coming up with a creative and innovative way to make our social studies and visual arts curricula come alive for Island students. This is a great project that you should all be very proud of,” said Mr. Currie.
Tourism and Culture Minister Robert Vessey also praised the initiative. “Museums across the province have a wealth of materials and information, and exciting programs such as this one make these resources available and increase awareness of our heritage.”
There are 10 different suitcases that vary from topics like Prince Edward Island in the 1850's, the Depression of the 1930's in Prince Edward Island, Eye on Art - Visual Art Outreach, and the History of Tourism on PEI. The suitcases contain a number of artifacts and information related to Island history and visual arts. Information contained in the suitcases is also available on the Wyatt Heritage Properties website at www.wyattheritage.com under the Discovery Zone tab.
Island Social Studies teachers and history buffs are encouraged to take advantage of the “Open Suitcase Series” either in person or online.