Gaetano Malandrino

7.17 La Didattica del Patrimonio – Heritage Education: A Point of View (Paper)

Gaetano Malandrino – Academy of Fine Arts in Carrara, Italy

Abstract:

My approach to heritage education is grounded in the belief that art and culture are not merely historical artifacts, but dynamic forces that shape our identities and communities. The pedagogy is characterized by a strong emphasis on: • Interdisciplinarity: advocates for an interdisciplinary approach to heritage education, integrating art history, archaeology, sociology, and other relevant fields to provide a holistic understanding of cultural heritage. • Active Learning: promotes active learning methodologies that encourage students to engage directly with cultural heritage through hands-on activities, field trips, and collaborative projects. • Contextualization: stresses the importance of contextualizing cultural heritage within its historical, social, and cultural settings. This allows students to develop a deeper appreciation for the significance of these heritage sites and artifacts. • Community Engagement: heritage education should be closely linked to the community. Students are encouraged to engage with local communities and to contribute to heritage conservation and promotion. In conclusion, my perspective on heritage education is characterized by a commitment to fostering a deep appreciation for the past, a belief in the power of education to create positive social change, and a recognition of the interconnectedness of cultural heritage and contemporary society.

Shared heritages, common heritages that open new points of view