VIRTUAL New Schools of Thought

Abstract

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This study describes an exploratory educational exercise conducted by second-year BA students in Communication Sciences at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, University of Porto, in collaboration with the National Museum of Soares dos Reis in Porto, Portugal. The project focused on developing engaging educational activities around five selected 19th-century Portuguese artworks provided by the museum for children aged 7-12. The goal was to create memorable experiences for young audiences through playful activities, stimulating their interest in the artworks and enhancing their retention of information. The tangible outputs of this initiative include a printed booklet and a downloadable PDF available for download. Ten groups (each comprising 1-4 members) selected an artwork to develop. The methodology included visual analysis, observation, and informal validation of activities with the target age group through family and friends. Each group produced an eight-page booklet with artwork context, artist information, fun facts, quizzes, and activities designed for use in the museum, at home, or in school with teachers. Although the students have not yet formally presented their work to the museum (this will occur in a few weeks), the exercise has already provided valuable experience. It allowed students to engage with a real client, develop a proposal, and practice pitching their ideas. For the lecturer, it was rewarding to observe the students’ enthusiasm and the potential benefits of this real-world application for their professional development.