Dissecting art: developing object-based teaching using historical collections

This book chapter draws on the arts and humanities to discuss how object-based teaching using historical collections can be re-birthed, re-developed, and implemented in higher education settings for the exploration of challenging topics, including medical ethics, within the context of anatomical sciences. Although the authors have focused on the above discipline, the chapter showcases its versatility and adaptability to other areas including vocational degrees such as medicine, dentistry, and nursing. A model lesson plan has been discussed in detail based on ‘objects’ related to three separate but strongly linked themes: Women as Academics, Women as Artists, and Women as Portrayed as the Subjects of Dissection in Anatomical Art. This is a novel approach that discusses how the combination of existing collections of rare books, rich in anatomical illustrations, and museum artefacts can be used in a meaningful and structured way to encourage conversations amongst learners while promoting awareness about sensitive topics and increasing confidence in communication. The authors have drawn from personal past experience and the current literature to discuss the above aims and critically explore logistical issues that may be associated with the identification of suitable ‘objects’. The authors’ ultimate goal is to introduce a concise and easy to adapt ‘how to guide’ for educationalists who have an interest in the integration of arts and humanities in vocational and science curricula