As an international student considering studying in the UK, you may be looking for a university that offers not only academic excellence but also innovative teaching methods that engage and inspire. Middlesex University, known for its forward-thinking approach, provides just that with unique initiatives like Alan Wheeler’s Lego® workshops.
Middlesex University, founded in 1992, has a rich history rooted in higher education dating back to the 19th century. It began as a teacher training college in 1878 and evolved into a polytechnic before gaining university status. Located in North London, it offers a wide range of courses and is known for its commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and a strong focus on practical learning. Today, Middlesex University is a vibrant institution with a diverse student body and a reputation for providing high-quality education across various fields.
Alan, a Liaison Librarian at Middlesex University, has pioneered a series of workshops that use Lego® blocks to help students from a range of disciplines—including Mathematics, Photography, and Psychology—develop problem-solving skills, spark creativity, and encourage collaboration. What makes this approach so special is how it bridges the gap between conventional study techniques and creative learning processes.
The Power of Play in Education
The concept of using Lego® as a learning tool might seem unconventional at first, but Alan’s workshops are a testament to how play can enhance learning. Lego® isn’t just for children; it’s a universal tool that allows students to engage with ideas in a tactile, visual way. Alan explains that Lego® allows students to work through challenges and think outside the box, often breaking free from traditional methods of problem-solving.
During his workshops, students are tasked with building models based on specific or open-ended instructions. These models are designed to represent ideas, relationships, or concepts from their academic subjects. For instance, Photography students have been asked to explore their relationship with their medium through the construction of Lego® models, allowing them to express their creative process in a tangible form.
Encouraging Creativity Across Disciplines
The beauty of Alan’s Lego® workshops lies in how they bridge creative boundaries. Students from fields you might not expect to be highly creative—such as Mathematics—have shown remarkable innovation when given the opportunity to engage with Lego®. Alan shares a fascinating anecdote of a Math student whose creativity surprised everyone. The student’s Lego® creation was entirely abstract, and it was only when the student explained their model that its connection to mathematical concepts became clear.
This illustrates an essential point: creativity isn’t confined to artistic subjects. At Middlesex University, students across disciplines are encouraged to think critically and creatively, enabling them to excel not only in their chosen fields but also in broader problem-solving skills that will benefit them throughout their careers.
A Nostalgic Experience that Boosts Student Well-Being
In addition to fostering creativity, Lego® workshops provide students with a sense of nostalgia and joy. Alan recounts how one student compared the experience to the excitement of Christmas morning—an unexpected and powerful emotional connection that enhances the learning experience. This emotional aspect of learning can help students feel more engaged and motivated, making the university experience not just educational but also personally fulfilling.
Why Choose Middlesex University?
If you are an international student searching for a university that offers more than just standard lectures and exams, Middlesex University provides an environment where creative learning is encouraged across all disciplines. The innovative use of Lego® workshops is just one example of how the university goes beyond traditional methods to inspire students to think differently, collaborate effectively, and apply their learning in practical, hands-on ways.
Whether you’re interested in subjects like Mathematics, Photography, or Psychology, Middlesex University’s approach to learning will equip you with the tools to thrive academically and creatively. The opportunities for personal growth and academic development at Middlesex University are boundless, and it’s this kind of forward-thinking environment that can help make your time in the UK both memorable and rewarding.
If you’re looking for a university that values creativity, hands-on learning, and innovative teaching methods, Middlesex University may be the perfect place for you to start your academic journey. Don’t be afraid to embrace new methods of learning that challenge you to think outside the box—and who knows, you might just rediscover the joy of learning through play!