Category: Education

The technological landscape around us continues to evolve at a rapid pace. So, it’s no surprise that educators face the challenge of providing students with innovative tools and the skills to use those tools. In particular, 3D scanners are devices that students should learn how to use for a head start. Learn why schools should invest in 3D scanners for their students here.

Accustoms Students to the Devices of the Future

Integrating 3D scanners into the classroom setting does more than just impart technical skills; it accustoms students to the devices of the future. As industries continue to adopt 3D technologies, such as manufacturing and healthcare, the presence of these technologies in the job market grows exponentially.

By familiarizing students with 3D scanners, schools create an environment where young minds can learn and become proficient with the same tools they will encounter in their future careers. This foresight in education enhances a student’s adaptability. Additionally, it increases their marketability as they enter a workforce that highly values tech-savvy individuals.

It’s Not Just 3D Scanners

3D scanners aren’t the only innovative devices your school should introduce to students for their future technical savvy. Virtual reality is another rapidly advancing technology that is already becoming part and parcel of everyday life.

Fortunately, virtual reality helps education in more ways than just exposing students to the tech.  Incorporate it alongside 3D scanners to produce the most well-rounded, prepared students you can.

Enhances Learning for Students Interested in STEM

For students with aspirations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, 3D scanners serve as a pivotal educational resource. In fact, one of the key uses of 3D scanning technology in schools is catering to and fostering interest in STEM fields.

These devices allow for the conversion of any object into a digitized model that students can manipulate, study, and analyze. This brings abstract concepts to life. Hands-on experience with advanced technology deepens students’ comprehension and sparks an interest in complex subjects.

The resulting versatility in experiments and projects rockets STEM education from the confines of textbooks into the tangible world.  It provides a more comprehensive learning experience that can accommodate many learning styles.

Fosters Student Creativity and Curiosity

Finally, 3D scanners play a significant role in fostering student creativity and curiosity. When students can scan objects and manipulate them within a virtual space, they are encouraged to explore a multitude of design possibilities.

This exploration goes beyond mere novelty; it teaches students to think critically about the design and function of everyday objects. It challenges them to invent, innovate, and solve problems in creative ways. By creating space in the classroom for this type of inquisitive and inventive thinking, schools are equipping a new generation of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers. It empowers the children of today to better face the challenges of the future.

The potential that 3D scanners hold for enhancing education is immeasurable, making it clear why schools should invest in 3D scanners for their students. By helping students seamlessly interact with future technologies, strengthening their grasp on STEM disciplines, and nurturing a creative and problem-solving mindset, 3D scanners act as a catalyst for an immersive and future-forward education.

Have you been looking at high schools for your teen and wondering which one in your area is the best fit?  Schools that attract the parents seeking a quality education for their kids are those with an amazing variety of academic programs, top-notch teachers, and a huge selection of sports and clubs.

It’s a school where you are confident your teen will thrive in the positive environment is key.  A school that is focused on bringing out the best in every student.

Our case study of one such school is a review of Ancora High School. The fact that it’s located with in a welcoming and supporting community also adds to the positive benefit when searching for a high school.

Award-Winning Curriculum

You want your teen to get the best education possible to set them up for success. A school like Ancora High School allows your child to thrive in an environment focused on academic achievement.

Rigorous Curriculum: Ancora offers 16 Advanced Placement courses as well as honors classes across all subjects to challenge students. Classes go in-depth and teach critical thinking skills.

Award-Winning Teachers: Over 80% of Ancora’s teachers hold advanced degrees, and many have won district and state awards. They are experts at engaging students.

Technology Integration: From laptops for every student to smartboards in classrooms, technology is seamlessly integrated to enhance learning.

STEM Opportunities: Ancora has an award-winning Robotics Team, coding classes, and partnerships with local tech firms to provide internships.

College Prep:  With a 99% graduation rate and over 90% of grads attending college, Ancora thoroughly prepares students for higher education.

Ancora delivers academic excellence through top-notch teachers, rigorous coursework, and cutting-edge technology. Your teen will be challenged to reach their full potential there.

The school also offers online high school for adults 18 years and older who for a variety of reasons were not able to complete their studies or desire to achieve their diploma online.

Extracurricular Activities

Ancora High offers an incredible range of extracurriculars that will engage and challenge your teen. With over 60 clubs and activities, there’s something for every interest.

Ancora’s nationally ranked debate team has taken home top honors at state and national tournaments. Sharpen critical thinking and public speaking skills.

Join Ancora’s award-winning theater program and act in musicals and plays at our state-of-the-art auditorium.

The journalism program produces an award-winning newspaper and TV broadcast. Hone media and reporting talents.

Make music in Ancora’s jazz band, choir, orchestra or one of many other musical groups. Perform at concerts and competitions.

Get involved in student government, homecoming activities, prom committee and more. Take on leadership roles.

Join a STEM club like robotics, coding or Rocketry Club and apply your science and tech skills. Compete in tournaments.

There are many benefits for students who get involved in extracurricular activities. With amazing teachers leading the way, Ancora’s extracurriculars give students a place to explore passions and develop talents. The variety ensures your teen can find their niche.

Explore why parents of foreign students want their children to study in us high schools.

In the dynamic landscape of education, teaching and learning methodologies are in a constant state of flux, perpetually advancing and transforming. The classrooms and lecture halls that we see today bear little resemblance to those of just a few years prior, offering vastly different experiences for the scholars they serve.

As we navigate this evolution, the concept of inclusive teaching has emerged at the forefront. This paradigm shift in education manifests a commitment to creating learning environments that embrace and engage all students. Let’s explore this progressive approach and delve into some of the top strategies for fostering a truly inclusive learning experience.

Inclusive teaching—once a mere whisper in the corridors of academia—has swelled into a resonant chorus echoing throughout modern educational discourse. The quintessential merits of this approach make it a subject of intense exploration among educators worldwide. This pedagogical approach, in essence, is all about ensuring every learner, irrespective of their background or abilities, is engaged and catered to within the learning environment.

Decoding the Key Aspects of Inclusive Teaching and Learning

Digging deeper into the realm of inclusive teaching, we find a suite of common attributes that define a truly inclusive classroom. These include creating a sense of belonging for all students, embracing an open-door policy that welcomes every learner, and fostering a psychologically safe haven for free and fearless expression. An inclusive classroom also promotes active listening, stimulates participation, and diligently works towards eliminating biases.

Furthermore, a key focus is on bolstering student motivation and maintaining it throughout the learning journey. At first glance, incorporating all these elements might seem like a massive undertaking, and indeed, it does require time and effort. But remember, the journey to achieving anything meaningful requires perseverance, and the numerous benefits reaped make this endeavour truly rewarding.

Strategies for Cultivating an Inclusive Learning Environment

Fostering a Safe Learning Environment

Creating a safe learning environment is of paramount importance in the inclusive teaching approach. This means establishing a psychologically safe space, where students have complete freedom to express their thoughts, perspectives, and doubts without the fear of judgement, ridicule, or retaliation. An implicit understanding of this safety should extend to the physical realm as well, ensuring students are protected from any harm or abuse.

Educators striving for inclusivity must ensure that respect and empathy are fundamental values upheld within the classroom. Every student needs to understand that it’s okay to struggle, it’s okay to misunderstand, and it’s okay to be incorrect. Bullying or belittling on these grounds is unacceptable.

Respect for one another is a pivotal element in maintaining a productive and interactive classroom. Hence, educators may need to establish ground rules that emphasise this, and gently remind students of these expectations as they proceed with their lessons.

Example

In an inclusive classroom, a culture of open dialogue exists where learners feel comfortable to voice their confusion or express their struggles without fear of ridicule. Let’s take a math class scenario as an illustration. Here, students are grappling with a complex equation, finding it difficult to comprehend the intricacies of the mathematical logic.

In a truly inclusive and psychologically safe space, these learners would feel at ease asking their teacher to elucidate further, breaking down the equation into simpler terms. They would have the confidence to admit their misunderstanding, without the fear of being stigmatised or teased.

This transparent communication strengthens the learning process, fostering an environment where curiosity is celebrated, and understanding is prioritised over mere rote memorisation.

Enriching The Learning Experience Through Diverse Materials

The profundity of academic expertise available today presents an opportunity to diversify learning materials, delivering a more well-rounded and enriching learning experience for students. Notably, students may find it easier to resonate with materials, when the authors or historical figures they study share a similar background or situation.

Furthermore, exposing students to a myriad of perspectives can significantly enhance their critical thinking skills, as they grapple with differing views and opinions. This approach fosters a holistic understanding of a topic, rather than a one-dimensional view.

Moreover, encouraging students to recognise biases in authors’ works, compare differing viewpoints, and personally relate to these narratives, cultivates a more immersive and educational experience than merely repeating the same references. Diversifying learning materials, thus, not only connects students more personally to the subject matter, but also broadens their intellectual horizons.

Example

Consider a history class delving into the complexities of the Vietnam War. Rather than examining the conflict solely through a specific lens, the educator adopts a more balanced approach.

Prioritising Student-Centric Adaptations

As educators, it becomes pivotal to acquaint ourselves intimately with our students and customise our teaching methodologies to cater to their unique needs. We must acknowledge the digital divide that exists among learners; some may lack requisite access to personal computing devices or high-speed internet. Consequently, we must ensure that their learning does not hinge excessively on tasks like creating elaborate Google Docs or scavenging the internet for responses.

Simultaneously, it’s imperative to consider learners who may grapple with reading-related challenges due to learning impediments. To ensure these students maintain stride with their peers, incorporating a broader spectrum of teaching tools—like video or audio content—may become necessary. The crux here lies in ensuring every student’s learning journey progresses unhindered, regardless of their individual circumstances.

Example

In this inclusive classroom, there are students who face significant challenges with written assignments due to varying writing difficulties, while another student grapples with reading-based tasks. To level the playing field for these students during assessments, the teacher decides to innovate.

Instead of a traditional written examination for the upcoming French test, the educator opts for an oral examination. This alternative approach allows these students to better demonstrate their understanding and proficiency in the French language, thus promoting fair and inclusive evaluation.

Next Steps for Teachers:

Read about strategies for advancing teaching skills in professional educators.

Is your child slow in adapting conventional classroom learning methods and has a hard time focusing? How often have you felt that your kid is not responding to the traditional methods like other fellow beings in his class? Every child is different; each processes information in different ways.

Some kids may learn through basic educational methods and some might need an extra approach to clear their concepts. And that’s where project-based learning comes into action. Here are the first two benefits of this type of learning.  Then, we’ll dive into the specifics.

Project-based learning is one revolution of the traditional learning techniques. It is a concoction of various strategies and programs to bring out the best results, involving kids in engagement, critical thinking skills, and real-world skills in a practical way.

Project-based learning teaches high-quality communication as well. It’s a science-backed technique that, with other learning methods, enhances knowledge, numeracy, science, and art. Moreover, it aids kids with problem-solving methods through real-life examples.

Let’s dive into the details of project-based learning (PBL) and explore how it benefits students of all ages, from preschool, to high school, to higher education.

All You Need To Know About Project-Based Learning?

According to the Buck Institute of Education, project-based learning is explained as “Investigating And Responding To An Authentic, Engaging And Complex Problem Or Challenge.”

Another definition is a dynamic classroom approach through which kids challenge real-world problems and acquire deeper knowledge.

Research shows that PBL, when compared to traditional learning methods, increases:

• Engagement
• Intelligence
• Knowledge Retention

Project-based learning is a student-centered approach, and it involves three constructive principles:

1. Students learn from context-specific approaches.
2. They are thoroughly involved in the learning process
3. They achieve their goals through social interaction and the sharing of knowledge and understanding.

Project-Based Learning vs Independent Projects

Doing a project involves the application of the knowledge provided by the teacher or professor. It is performed only after the knowledge is delivered. In contrast, project-based learning is the unit of work and provides the knowledge while doing it through real-life scenarios. It is the ideal technique to prepare children for real-life projects.

Benefits of Project-Based Learning

Students collaborate and use their critical thinking powers instead of mechanical memorization through PBL. Project-based learning has the following 7 benefits;

Student-Centered Approach

This method allows the project to revolve around the student, and each student is assigned responsibility according to their strengths; unlike the traditional teaching method, where the student listens to how and what the teacher is communicating, PBL is student-centered. However, the teacher facilitates with the information required.

Critical Thinkers Are Born In The Process

Teaching kids to think critically is vital in today’s landscape. To think out of the box and devise a solution is what critical thinkers do. PBL allows students to ask questions and think deeply. Students’ thinking skills in project-based learning are not confined to the classroom walls and its teaching etiquette. The information is not memorized; it’s experienced and grasped through project learning.

Promotes Integration of Subjects

An interesting phenomenon of project-based learning is the integration of subjects through a project. For learners who need to improve in a subject or are fearful of common learning methods, PBL is ideal for them. These learners respond well and retain the knowledge. Moreover, they can overcome the anxiety they behold around certain subjects.

Encourages Social Learning

Collaborating with other learners is an interesting aspect of project-based learning. This encourages the students to develop social interaction skills, which are beneficial for them for the rest of their lives. Within this setting, children are generally seen to possess better communication and public speaking skills.

Better Learning Opportunities

Through project-based learning, the students can identify their strengths and learn more about opportunities in their strengths across the globe. the use of technology and real-life projects in PBL helps them get access to opportunities apart from their community

The Individual Strengths Are Bloomed And Nurtured

Through project-based learning, the individual powers of every learner are identified. By working in a group, they practice different skills that can nurture their inner strengths. The facilitator can identify the individual’s strengths and weaknesses. While working in a group, they naturally sort themselves into roles that they possess inertly.

Allows The Teachers To Measure The Progress

Project-based learning is an evolution of the conventional learning process, and it is not marked traditionally. The rules of assessing through PBL are unique and comes with it’s own set of challenges. Through each Project, the teacher gets a clear picture of the powers and weaknesses of each student.

Project-based learning has its own set of advantages for learners of all stages.

Let’s see how it is beneficial for different stages.

Project-Based Learning at Different Academic Levels

Project-based learning can be different at different levels.

Primary and Pre-School

A study in Sweden with preschool science teachers showed that project-based learning could improve the understanding of preschool science.

Another study in the U.S. explored the usefulness of project-based learning in 2nd graders. The study explored the areas of social studies and content area literacy. The study revealed positive results. It showed that project-based learning bridges the gap between Low and high-SES students in literacy and social studies.

Hence, project-based learning proves to be beneficial for students from preschool to primary school.

Let’s talk about a few examples of project-based Learning techniques used in preschool.

Project-based learning techniques at the Preschool level:

• Art and craft activities involving coloring and drawing real objects.
• Learning geometry or math through games, projects or educational toys.
• Devising a project under the supervision of a parent with the help of a teacher.
• Enacting out important social issues to understand strong emotions.
• Cooking to learn more about various food groups and their importance.
• Celebrating different weeks like a week of kindness and gratitude to be grateful and kind from a very early age

Project-Based Learning In High School

A study in the U.S. of 7th and 8th graders who participated in a science-based inquiry project showed increased science-based content understanding, better processing skills, and better test rates results when compared to the remaining district populations.

Techniques used in High school:

• Asking the students to investigate fake news.
• Challenging the student to examine a piece of poetry and write something of their own.
• Inspiring the student to make their holiday.
• Asking them to solve an environmental problem faced by the public.

Project-Based Learning For Higher Education

According to a study, Postgraduate students’ self-management skills are the main enabler for achieving learning results from project-based learning.

According to a study carried out in 2011, researchers discovered that project-based learning promotes meaningful language learning for workspace skills.

Therefore, project-based learning has proven to be beneficial for all stages of learning. It is a branch of the learning techniques used in today’s teaching methods.

Project-based learning is not just utilized in schools, it is a universal concept that any team can use in any organization.

7 Essential Key Elements of Project Learning

Before implementing PBL to the learners, it is important to consider these key elements and characteristics:

A Challenging Key Problem or Question

The project is always designed as a challenging question or a problem. The students have to formulate solutions and answers. The question is always appropriate to the age group.

Sustained Inquiry

The student undergoes a detailed process of research, inquiry, questions, and applying information.

Authenticity

The project always involves real-world practices. It revolves around real problems and real solutions. Inquiries and information should be authentic. The projects speak to the personal interests and problems in the child’s life.

Students’ Voice and Choice

The projects portray the thoughts of the learner. The students decide what they perceive of the topic and how they want to talk about it. It becomes a reflection of the child’s thought process.

Reflection

The students and teachers reflect on their learning and clarify the questions. They ponder over the hurdles and obstacles that come their way and the strategies they apply to overcome all of them

Critique and Revision

The students receive feedback, apply the feedback, and improvise their projects.

Conclusion

Project-based learning in today’s classroom is a comprehensive and innovative approach to learning new phenomena. Although, it can’t be the standalone method. It requires a thorough understanding of how to implement it by the teachers and parents. Before introducing it to the classroom, the teacher needs to have a deeper knowledge of it and the right resources. However, when carried out the right way, it has always proven to be beneficial in developing critical thinking skills, deeper knowledge, and knowledge retention in students of all levels.

Any group seeking to learn something together can benefit from project-based learning.  It’s just one of the types of learning that can benefit individuals.

Here is a video that explains Project-Based Learning in a non-school setting: