Educator's Briefcase

The Visitor Education Center is designed to provide visitors with an understanding and appreciation of the history, role and responsibilities of the Ohio court system.

The Center provides teachers with the tools to meet Benchmarks and Grade Level Indicators from the Ohio Department of Education’s Social Studies Standards. In addition to Government and Citizenship Rights and Responsibilities, the exhibits also meet Benchmarks in Geography, People in Society and Economics.

To add value to your group visit, we have worked with a cross-section of teachers to create suggested pre-and post-tour activities based on the content of the Education Center and how it relates to your goals in the classroom. Our education advisors believe these activities will enhance the experience for you and your students. We hope you have the opportunity to share them with your class.

If you have any questions regarding your visit or any of the information provided, please call 614.387.9223.

You Decide
The first exhibit area in the Visitor Education Center features eight different Ohio court cases. Each case presents an important issue decided by the courts.

State of Ohio v. Hank Dobbs
Students will role-play a fictional case of State v. Dobbs. The experience unfolds in a trial court setting and later the Supreme Court. This provides students with a basic understanding of the roles and responsibilities of both trial and appellate courts. Students will also watch “Day in the Life,” a brief video overview of the Supreme Court of Ohio.

Balance Your Government
Ohio’s government is separated into three independent branches. Each branch has the ability to limit the power of the other two. Visitors will have a chance to “balance” the government with the interactive Balance of Power exhibit.