York archaeologist shortlisted for THE teaching award

Posted on 10 September 2020

Dr Aimée Little, from the University of York’s Department of Archaeology, has been shortlisted for the Times Higher Education (THE) Innovative Teacher of the Year award.

Dr Aimée Little

Dr Little is recognised for developing learning programmes that enable students to bridge theory and practice through experiential and experimental learning.

In 2015 Dr Little founded the YEAR Centre, an outdoor experimental archaeology teaching/research space at the University of York.

At what looks to be an ancient campsite, students can experience first-hand what it would have been like to craft objects in the past using traditional techniques. Students are also taught how to design and implement experiments, and how to use a range of scientific methods to document them.

This informal outdoor learning environment has proven to break down social barriers and increased student engagement through group work and hands-on experience.

Dr Little said: “It’s an honour to be shortlisted for this award. I believe the best way to learn is by doing. Rather than simply telling students how an artefact was made and used, I encourage them to experience this themselves. Through my research-led teaching, I am empowering students to become active researchers themselves. ”

The winners of the Times Higher Education Awards will be announced during a virtual ceremony on the 26 November 2020. Click here for the complete list of nominations