The past is everywhere around us, and teaching about the past is a common trait of all societies. However, the choice of what past is taught, and how, are complex decisions. These chapters argue for the value of using the physical remains of the past. This evidence is not commonly used in education for a range of reasons, including lack of time and experience, so the introductory chapters show how and where the historic environment can be used to fit into and enhance learning. These guidelines are reinforced by case studies from a wide cross section of the heritage sector that also prove that physical heritage can not only be used to teach obvious subjects such as history, but is also useful across the curriculum, from literacy and numeracy to citizenship.
Practical, inspiring and instructive, Education and the Historic Environment emphasizes the contribution to both education and heritage that results from a positive relationship between the two disciplines. Teachers at all levels, and students, academics, and professionals in archaeology and heritage management will all be able to use the case studies to reform and enhance their work.