[Elaine Williams]

in reply to: Astrophysics #2871

This sounds like quite a lot, Michelle!!!

I guess as a Chemist, we could start with the sun, stars and maybe Mars.  Look at light and the different colours of minerals

Cu – green, Ca – red, K – lilac, Na – yellow, Mg – white

The patterns, colours, reactions and compounds found in the atmosphere as well as the reflection, refraction of light and the effect of particulates

[Elaine Williams]

in reply to: What is my core pedagogy? #2869

My core pedagogy includes Socratic Questionning, use of real world experiences in storytelling form, use of challenges to develop inquiry- and project-based learning, use of practical hands-on activities.  The online platforms are great but often-times not always accessible by students.  Some students use only phones and so do not see all the offerings on the platform especially if they use the related App.

 

The STEAM pedagogies looked at in this section that I have used are Inquiry and Project Based Learning.

 

 

 

[Elaine Williams]

in reply to: The Evidence for STEAM learning #2868

This is  quite an interesting topic.  I realized that it is hard to define STEAM in only 12 words.  Many words come to mind including integration, innovation, collaboration, differentiation, equity, inclusion using multiple intelligences.  Constructivism includes  inquiry-based learning that also includes project- and problem-based learning, self-regulated learning and the overarching worldview of dialectical pragmatism.  This means that there are multiple views and if it works, it can be used to ensure that through the different methodologies, analyses and reflection, reasonable conclusions can be arrived at. STEAM helps learners to not only acqire knowledge, but helps develop positive attitudes through successful experiences.  This then includes the humanistic approach and the fact that learning is life-long and can be satisfying and not just obligatory.

The topic of the Trebuchet which can be looked at from and educational, cultural, historical, political or pedagogical point of view shows that indeed STEAM involves the entire curriculum, multiple topics that can be integrated in innovative way.  I note that the STEAM point of view involves the following

Science – Calculation of force, distance, friction, inclusion of a motor (Physics), composition of material thrown, like rocks, clods of dirt, metal (Chemistry)

Technology – not just for research purposes but could be incorporated in a computerized motor

Engineering – actual optimum design of the Trebuchet

Art – use of colours to camouflage the Trebuchet, artistic design in order to fit into the background and so be undetected

Mathematics – formulae to calculate the force multiplied, distance travelled, optimum size of ‘cannons’

 

 

 

[Elaine Williams]

in reply to: What is my core pedagogy? #2732

Sounds really good Camara.  This is also intersting, Edith!  Based on the first part of the second section of the course, you can still incorporate what you love or are passionate about (aspects of cosmetology) in your teaching and learning.

One of my students here in Jamaica looked at ways to remove nail polish.  She looked for the regular removers, time taken to remove and effectiveness as well as cost.  I recommended that she use nails that were being sold.

Another student looked at different types of shampoo and its effect on the hair.  With the number of wigs on offer (synthetic, natural, straight, curly, colours)  this would be quite interesting – use of different bleaching agents.  A look under the microscope after can also add a greater Scientific dimension.  The possibilities are endless :))

[Elaine Williams]

in reply to: Six Engineering Habits of Mind #2731

A further look at the Engineering habits of mind figure and the engineering design model highlights similar areas (the  second layer of the former).  It is interesting to note the additional outer layer of the learning habits of mind include characteristics needed by the 21st century citizen – collaboration (part of the 4 C’s) , curiosity (necessary for entrepreneurship),  and reflection, resourcefulness and resilience  (necessary parts of problem-solving and critical thinking).  Open-mindedness and ethical considerations makes one think of  equity and inclusion. These are necessary for successful STE(A)M integration.

[Elaine Williams]

in reply to: Six Engineering Habits of Mind #2730

This pen design led to so many responses.  Also, prior learning was involved as persons had experience with so many different types of pens.  One colleague who presented mentioned how to use acrylic to make the pen and that she still had one that was made years before.  Persons looked at different parts of the pen to improve.  It was also based on our areas of expertise as some persons looked at cost factor, environmental factors, artistic design and colours!

One of the questions in the first part of the course asked about:

Which Engineering habit of mind involves the ability to persist in the face of challenges and setbacks?

I was looking at the different parts of the figure and decided that it would be in the learning habits of mind section and not the engineering habit of mind.  Therefore, I did not agree with the expected answer in the quiz.  However,  on reflection, I am wondering if the “Engineering habit of mind” in the question could have actually meant the entire diagram.  This shows that the different ways of looking at the same question from different perspectives.  STE(A)M integration allows for multiple perspectives, just like the pen activity.

So as educators, we have to bear this in mind when our students have ideas.  No answer is incorrect but we have to listen, be patient and try to see their point of view.

[Author]

Posts