Picture match - Classrooms through history

The "Picture match - Classrooms through history" activity is an engaging way for students to explore the evolution of educational environments over time. Participants are presented with a series of photographs, each depicting a classroom from a different era, as outlined in the accompanying table. The task requires students to examine the details within each photograph and match them to the correct time period: before 1900, 1910, 1960, 2000, and today. This exercise not only challenges students' observational skills but also encourages them to consider the historical context of each image.

By assigning a number to each photo based on when they believe it was taken, students actively engage with the visual history of education. The activity is scored, with 2 points awarded for each correct match, and a total of 10 minutes is allocated for completion. This reflective exercise prompts students to think about the changes in classroom settings and educational tools over time, and it may even lead to discussions about their grandparents' experiences in school, comparing and contrasting the educational settings across generations. The activity, created by Focus Education (UK) Ltd, serves as a bridge connecting students to the past, helping them to appreciate the progression of educational practices and environments.