Getting Up Close What will the next generation of learning in the STEM fields look like? According to newly released K–12 science standards, it will involve a lot more practice, with lessons that are experiential and investigative. One model of that new kind of learning is already here: EcoMOBILE , a project that uses augmented reality — virtual elements intersecting with real-world experiences — to teach middle schoolers about ecosystem science and the complex factors that contribute to a natural habitat. “We’re trying to push the boundaries on how students understand ecosystem science,” says Amy Kamarainen , a senior researcher at the Harvard Graduate School of Education , who was invited to speak about EcoMOBILE at a forum on the future of STEM learning sponsored by the National Science Foundation and the White House. Think about the discrepancies in how students and ecosystem scientists work, Kamarainen says. Most middle school students learn science in 50-minute blo...
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Prototype is out and running.... now what. So we have changed our school model and now we must adjust our prototype on the fly. We have removed bells, changed our teaching styles and content and worked on mentoring students in seminar. So now what happens. Well as with anything new, there are things that need tweaking. The students and I have been converting the library into a more usable space for us. Yes, they got some comfy chairs back and tables from former student projects. We are still waiting on big furniture. So now we are adding course the students are hoping to get at school. Precalc 12 and writing 12 are added for next semester. We are also starting some girls and boys groups for the younger grades and peer tutoring from the older students to the younger. The atmosphere of collaboration is there. But.... How can we engage the ones that have not opted into courses...
Pender happenings. As I am sitting here on a rainy day, I am thinking back to the past couple weeks at Pender Secondary and all the changes. Our prototype project at the school is well underway and now we are trying to make adjustments as needed. Our seminar room is slowly being converted. The students love the two club chairs and we have found tables in the wood shop that we will stain and add in. The rest of the new furniture is on its way. Teachers and the new assignments have been finalized. Our term 3 and 4 exploration blocks are set and look like a great experience for all. Term 3 Robot Wars - Mr. Fawcus Hiking - Ms. Haines International foods - Ms. Pednaud Weight training - Mr. Stoddart Drawing - Mr. Shaw Medieval metals - Mr. Walls Term 4 Dragons De...
Inquiry based learning. As we have moved to this model of teaching at Pender, I would like to help everyone understand what we are doing. We at Pender Harbour Secondary have changed to a 5 period day and eliminated the bells. I know crazy right..... Our day starts with a 15 minute home room. We get to go over our schedule that day and plan our seminar time. Then we spend time together talking about events or activities that are important to us that day. I like to think of it as coffee talk..... Yes, we have two set classes a week for course content and then seminar time for students to work in groups, alone or with a teacher. We get to spend class time on concepts and use seminar time for deeper analysis of the content. So here is how it works in sciences. We learn concepts in class and apply them in labs or assignments outside of the direct instruction time. This teaching style allows students to take unlimited number...
Welcome to Pender Habour Elementary Secondary Principals Blog We have just begun term 2 and our electives for grade 7-9 are art, foods and woods. We are also finished our first section of the exploration blocks and are beginning woods, ceramics, musical theatre, guitar, martial arts and independent languages. We are excited to post images of our groups around the school so drop by and check them out. As part of the community, we are excited to have members of the area come in and help our school with lunch program, art projects and even instructing martial arts. We love working with the community around us and are looking for ways as a school to get involved. Let us know any ideas you have.......