Case 14: Co-curricular Innovation: Teaching about Patents as Primary Sources

by Bridget Garnai and Heidi Gauder

With the rich history of airplane and automotive invention in Dayton, Ohio, and the value of patents as primary sources in mind, librarians Bridget Garnai and Heidi Gauder designed and taught two interactive, co-curricular workshops at University of Dayton’s Roesch Library. Their goals were to introduce students to patents as primary sources that influence daily life and expand students’ ideas of what kinds of research can be supported by patents. The two workshops focused on patent basics and the importance of patents in the growth and development of Dayton, Ohio; these lessons were enhanced through hands-on activities and a collaborative digital humanities project.

Access: Co-curricular Innovation: Teaching about Patents as Primary Sources