#3D Science and Math lab Equipment

[edugenius]

        E-LEARNING APP & ERP - Edugenius

StudyCloud is a means for interactive instruction. It is also a very flexible medium. It contains animated Multimedia syllabus- based chapters; Conceptual Notes and Summaries; Doubt solving; Concept clarification and a lot more. It aims at being an online aggregator for various local private educators, classes and institutions, giving them a platform to make their video lectures and notes available to students across the nation instead of just their locality or city. We aim to abolish the physical barriers restricting quality education reaching everyone, making it available to every student anywhere and at any time.

READ MORE...Smart Class Room, 3D Science and Math lab Equipment, Smart Learning India - E-Learning Providers | Edugenius 

[makers-muse]

How does our STEAM lab prepare students for STEM success? 

In today’s fast-paced world, the skills required for success in STEM fields are evolving rapidly. Our STEAM Lab is designed to nurture curiosity and provide a foundation for students to excel in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Here’s how our lab bridges the gap between curiosity and capability, preparing students for future STEM success. 

1. Hands-On Learning and Real-World Problem Solving 

The STEAM Lab offers students a place to actively engage with STEM concepts. Instead of just reading about science or engineering, students use hands-on projects to solve real-world problems. For example, they may build robots, design sustainable structures, or develop basic coding projects, all of which bring theory to life. 

Benefit: Research shows that students retain 80% of information they learn through practical experiences. By applying theory directly, students gain confidence in tackling complex problems, a skill essential for any STEM career. 

2. Encouraging Creativity with Technology and Art 

Our STEAM approach includes an “A” for “Arts,” recognizing that creativity is vital in STEM fields. Whether through designing interactive stories in Scratch or creating digital art, students learn that innovation often emerges from a blend of technical skill and creative thought. This mix cultivates open-mindedness and flexibility traits valued across all industries. 

Example: For instance, a project might involve creating an animated story that explains a scientific concept, blending visual art with coding to communicate complex ideas in a simple way. 

3. Building Collaboration and Communication Skills 

In the STEAM Lab, students often work in groups, sharing ideas and troubleshooting issues together. This collaborative environment simulates real-world workspaces, teaching them how to communicate ideas clearly, listen actively, and respect others’ perspectives. Group projects allow students to play different roles, developing both leadership and teamwork skills. 

Insight: According to LinkedIn’s Global Talent Trends, teamwork and communication are among the top skills sought by employers. Our lab helps students develop these skills early. 

4. Fostering a Growth Mindset through Challenges 

We encourage students to embrace a growth mindset the belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. Through projects with built-in challenges, they learn that failure isn’t a setback but a step toward improvement. This mindset is critical in STEM, where experimenting and iterating are essential parts of the problem-solving process. Learn more 

Impact: A study from Stanford University shows that students with a growth mindset are more resilient, better problem solvers, and more adaptable qualities necessary for thriving in STEM fields. 

5. Introducing Advanced Technology and Future Skills 

Our lab provides access to tools like 3D printers, coding software, and electronics kits. By using these technologies, students gain early exposure to advanced tools and concepts. As they work with these resources, they develop skills in critical areas like programming, engineering design, and data analysis. 

Future-Ready Skills: By familiarizing students with these tools, we’re helping them develop skills that will be in high demand in the future, from AI development to robotics engineering. 

6. Developing Confidence to Pursue STEM Careers 

Finally, our STEAM Lab is a confidence-building space. Students who start with simple projects quickly progress to more complex challenges. This progression not only strengthens their skills but also builds their confidence to pursue STEM education and careers. 

Empower your child’s future in STEM today 

Our STEAM Lab is more than a classroom it’s a launching pad for future success. By fostering curiosity, resilience, and creativity, we equip students with the tools to excel in STEM. Get involved today and let’s inspire the next generation of thinkers and innovators! 

Our STEAM Lab is more than just a classroom it’s a launching pad for future success. By fostering curiosity, resilience, and creativity, Makers’ Muse equips students with the tools they need to excel in STEM. Join us in inspiring the next generation of thinkers and innovators! 

[engineeringlabsinstrument]

Technical educational equipment Manufacturer, Suppliers and Exporter in India

Technical educational equipment is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of tools and devices used to teach and train students in technical fields. These tools can be used to teach a variety of subjects, including engineering, computer science, and vocational trades. Some common types of technical educational equipment include: Laboratory equipment: This type of equipment is used to conduct experiments and collect data. It can include items such as microscopes, balances, and spectrometers. Training simulators: These simulators provide students with hands-on experience with real-world equipment and processes. They can be used to train students in a variety of skills, such as welding, operating machinery, and flying airplanes. Software and instructional materials: These materials provide students with the information they need to learn about technical topics. They can include textbooks, online tutorials, and interactive simulations. Technical educational equipment can be a valuable asset for schools and training institutions. It can help students to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in technical careers. When choosing technical educational equipment, it is important to consider the needs of the students and the curriculum being taught. The equipment should be safe, reliable, and easy to use. It should also be up-to-date with the latest technology. Technical educational equipment can be expensive, but it is a worthwhile investment. It can help students to develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. Here is a list of common technical educational equipment used in school and college laboratories: 1. Microscopes: Compound Microscope Stereo Microscope 2. Laboratory Glassware: Beakers Flasks Test Tubes Graduated Cylinders 3. Chemistry Apparatus: Bunsen Burners Pipettes Centrifuges 4. Physics Instruments: Vernier Calipers Spectrometers Oscilloscopes 5. Biology Equipment: Petri Dishes Incubators 6. Environmental Science Instruments: pH Meters Conductivity Meters Water Quality Testing Kits 7. Engineering Tools: Digital Multimeters Power Supplies Soldering Stations 8.Computer Science Equipment: Desktop Computers Laptops Raspberry Pi Kits 9.Mathematics Tools: Graphing Calculators Geometry Kits Compass and Protractor Sets 10.Electronics Kits: Breadboards Resistors Capacitors 11. Robotics Components: Motors Sensors Microcontrollers 12. Geology Instruments: Rock and Mineral Kits Geological Hammers Compass Clinometers 13. Astronomy Equipment: Telescopes Star Charts Solar Filters 14. Material Science Tools: Spectrophotometers Tensile Testing Machines 15. Safety Equipment: Lab Coats Safety Goggles Fire Extinguishers 16. Audio-Visual Equipment: Projectors Interactive Whiteboards Educational Software 17.3D Printers and Scanners: 3D Printers 3D Scanners 18. Virtual Reality (VR) Systems: VR Headsets VR Simulators 19. Renewable Energy Kits: Solar Panels Wind Turbine Kits 20. Math and Science Software: Simulation Software Data Analysis Tools

[crowntechnologieshyderabad]

3D Studio Lab In Hyderabad India

3D Studio Lab 

Home / 3D Studio Lab

Fully-equipped Innovation Labs in Educational Institutions

CrownTechno’s 3D Studio Lab is a blend of top-notch technology and education going hand in hand. Due to this, learning has become more digital and more fun than in earlier days. Students get the opportunity to get inclined to learn more and grasp knowledge with interactive teaching methodologies being offered by 3D Studio Labs. 

We can set up 3D Studio Labs for Science and Math concepts to bring innovation to the digital learning experience. Labs can be set up for Primary, Middle, and Secondary classrooms to enrich students’ approach toward learning. These labs help teachers during regular classroom learning. Be it any subject, a 3D Studio Lab experience will be a pure delight to students, as well as to the teachers.

Concepts become alive with stunning 3D experience

CrownTechno’s Innovation 3D Studio Lab is a well-equipped studio where students get a chance to engage while learning. This idea facilitates digital learning through self-discovery among students and collaboration with teachers. Students can participate in fun activities to develop their abilities to think in innovative ways and solve problems in the ever-changing environment they live in.

3D Eureka Stereo content – 3-Dimensional Digital content offered to schools from 1st std to 12th std, these modules are designed in 3D and integrate STEM in the lessons (Science, Technology, Engineering, and mathematics).

3D Digital Mono Content comes with a library of around 4000 topics catering to the K12 curriculum of Science and Mathematics. This content consists of 3D animated videos, 3D Simulations, and 3D Interactive quizzes and games.

The 3D animated videos act as strong visualization tools for easy understanding of complex concepts. Likewise, the 3D simulations, 3D interactive, and 3D virtual labs, set in a fun-filled gaming environment, give learners an infinite opportunity to actively interact with challenging concepts.

For more information please contact us at +91 9160797103 or mail us at info@crowntechno.com. Website:- https://crowntechno.com/ and official address:- Avni Heights, 6th floor, Plot No.229, Ayyappa Society, Near CGR International School, Madhapur, Hyderabad, 500096

[stemrobo]

How to Setup ATAL TINKERING LAB at your School || OFFERINGS BY STEMROBO

Application for Atal Tinkering Laboratories : With a vision to ‘Cultivate one Million children in India as Neoteric Innovators’, Atal Innovation Mission is establishing Atal Tinkering Laboratories (ATLs) in schools across India. The objective of this scheme is to foster curiosity, creativity and imagination in young minds; and inculcate skills such as design mindset, computational thinking, adaptive learning, physical computing etc.

Contact For more Details :  https://www.stemrobo.com/atal-tinkering-labs/

 Key Features of ATL : ATL is a work space where young minds can give shape to their ideas through hands on do-it-yourself mode; and learn innovation skills. Young children will get a chance to work with tools and equipment to understand the concepts of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). ATL would contain educational and learning ‘do it yourself’ kits and equipment on – science, electronics, robotics, open source microcontroller boards, sensors and 3D printers and computers. Other desirable facilities include meeting rooms and video conferencing facility. In order to foster inventiveness among students, ATL can conduct different activities ranging from regional and national level competitions, exhibitions, workshops on problem solving, designing and fabrication of products, lecture series etc. at periodic intervals. Financial Support  : AIM will provide grant-in-aid that includes a one-time establishment cost of Rs. 10 lakh and operational expenses of Rs. 10 lakh for a maximum period of 5 years to each ATL. Eligibility : Schools (minimum Grade VI - X) managed by Government, local body or private trusts/society to set up ATL. For more information, please refer to the guidelines attached below. Schools desirous to establish ATLs may submit their application online to the Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog through the link given below.

https://www.stemrobo.com/atal-tinkering-labs/

[scientific-e-manufacturer]

Magnetism Demonstrator, 3D, with Magnet Manufacturer, Supplier and Exporter in India

3D form with oil.

Produces a dramatic demonstration of magnetic fields.

Includes 1 cylindrical magnet.

Size: 75 x 75 x 75mm acrylic block.

Designed for use with overhead projector.

Contact SEM for your School, College Science Physics Chemistry and Biology Lab Equipments. We are the best and renowned maths lab equipment manufacturers in india, physics lab equipments manufacturers, school educational equipments, school lab equipment manufacturer, school lab equipments manufacturers in india, scientific educational lab equipment in Ambala, India.

https://www.scientificequipmentsmanufacturer.com/physics-lab-equipments/magnetism/magnetism-demonstrators/magnetism-demonstrator-3d-with-magnet

[coding-bangladesh]

Programming & Robotics Education for Kids in Bangladesh (Part 1)

Hi there!

Today, I am going to write about one of my favorite topics and this is the programming and robotics education among youngsters of Bangladesh. In recent years, Bangladesh is putting a lot of effort in educating young children on computer programming and robotics. And in this article, I am going to talk about Cybernetics Robo Limited, one of the most promising robotics startups of Bangladesh.

Cybernetics Robo Limited

Cybernetics Robo Limited was established in 2018 in Sylhet, Bangladesh. It is the first EdTech company in Sylhet, Bangladesh and registered under the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies & Firms (RJSC) of Bangladesh.

So, what is the company all about?

Currently, Cybernetics Robo Limited operates under five divisions. These are –

Academy Division (Cybernetics Robo Academy & Cybernetics IT Institute)

Hardware Division (Educational Kits & others)

Software Division

Mobile Apps Division (Google Play) &

E-Commerce Division (www.robotechbd.com)

Below, I am going to provide a brief description of the academy division of Cybernetics Robo Limited.

Academy Division

The academy division of the company focuses on providing quality technology education to children and adults. At the time of this writing, the academy division runs two institutes under its wing named Cybernetics Robo Academy and Cybernetics IT Institute.

Cybernetics Robo Academy

It is an after school program that offers courses on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education for children. The academy specializes in developing and conducting courses like Coding (Programming) for Kids, Electronics for Kids, Robotics for Kids, Python Programming etc.. Students from this academy regularly take part in different national and international events like Bangladesh Robot Olympiad (BDRO), International Robot Olympiad (IRO), National High School Programming Contest (NHSPC) etc. and received various prestigious positions including Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. It has its own discussion forum where teachers and students discuss various programming and robotics related issues and help each other out. According to their statement, “by introducing Scratch (developed by MIT), Tinkercad and other programming languages, apps and tools suitable for children, we equip the next generation of programmers and engineers with the foundational skills for innovation: 3D design, electronics, and coding!”

Cybernetics IT Institute

It is rather a new initiative by the company where different types of professional courses and workshops are offered to higher level students and professionals. Their courses include ICT course for college students, Microsoft Office package, Graphics Design (Adobe Photoshop / Illustrator etc.)

Hardware Division

The Hardware R&D division is involved in researching and developing new products for the young, enthusiastic in science that will nurture their creativity. Smart Lab is their product line series that focuses on educational (STEM) kits for children and other higher level students. Their first flagship product for children is Kids Electronics Kit was released in 2019 which is the first electronics kit for children in Bangladesh. In early 2020, the company released its second product Solar Home Kit which was again the first solar kit for children in Bangladesh. So far, the company has released around seven educational products in Bangladesh suitable for children. Here's a list of all STEM Kits developed by Cybernetics Robo Limited

To be continued…

[edivupage]

High School Science Apps, Tools, and Resources That We Love

Are you looking for high school science apps, tools, and resources that you can use with your students? If so, we have you covered. Check out our list below. Let us know if there are any that we missed.

IXL Learning– IXL Learning has been proven to be effective in providing comprehensive, curriculum-based math and English language arts content for kindergarten to grade 12. It also provides an immersive learning experience in science, math, language arts, and social studies for K-12. It produces real results, which is why it is trusted by top teachers and presently used by The Elite 100.

The Hidden World of Our National Parks – Using 360° video, students can virtually follow park rangers into National Parks around the country and explore. From kayaking through icebergs to see a receding glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park to flying with thousands of bats through a cave in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, students can explore and discover fascinating corners of the U.S. National Parks system. Rangers provide facts and figures about each National Park as students move through the videos, so the website is both educational and engaging. It would be a good fit for any social studies or science class.

Khan Academy– Khan Academy has more than 40,000 interactive Common Core-aligned practice questions and above 10,000 videos and explanations in economics, history, math, and more. This is the best study app and tutoring app for students of all ages who are struggling in science and other subjects. You can easily bookmark your best content to “Your List,”  which can be used offline when you’re not connected to the Internet.

3D Molecules Edit & Test Interactive Simulations– Helps high school or college chemistry students learn by building 3-D models of organic and inorganic compounds for simple practice or for 3-D printing. Molecules can be viewed in 3-D using the stick, ball, and stick and space-filling (CPK) models.

Arloon Chemistry– This app turns your chemistry class into a lab. Totally change the way your students learn chemistry and write inorganic chemical formulas by using this app. Augmented reality lets students view inorganic molecules in 3-D; this app makes learning chemistry nomenclature practical and easier.

Chem Pro– This app makes AP chemistry and general chemistry fun and easy. It contains over 80 tutorial videos that cover the syllabus for both courses. It also comes with nine sets of flashcards to help you commit every important concept to memory. The app also comes with important tools such as the periodic table, molar mass calculator, and others. This app is new to the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. 

Chemistry Isomers– Learn to visualize the spatial arrangements and nomenclature of organic chemistry isomers in a fun and entertaining way. With over 400 exercises, this app will help you master chemistry isomers with ease; it provides instant feedback as you solve each exercise, taking the guesswork out of studying.

Collisions: Play Chemistry– A fun and easy way to learn chemistry by introducing the core foundations of chemistry in an interactive way. Various shapes are also included to simulate how binding of molecules occurs during chemical reactions and how complex compounds are formed between ions. Students also can test the strength of various acids.

HoloLAB Champions– HoloLAB Champions is a VR chemistry game show whose contestants become champions of lab practice by completing lab experiments. Contestants must accurately and safely finish experiments with the help of holographic hosts, Earl and Meyer. Players in the game interact with materials that resemble the equipment and materials that exist in a real chemistry lab that allows them to learn and practice real lab skills in a safe environment.

Late Nite Labs– Late Nite Labs creates a safe environment for students to learn about any experiment. Teachers can manage lab setups at any time, and students can access their labs from any place. Whether dissecting a frog, experimenting with chemicals in chemistry, shooting off a cannon to observe free fall, or just playing around, Late Nite Labs allows you to re-create and simulate your experiment online. This helps to teach children the reality of labs, without the worry of messing up in real life.

Math Ref– To help students learn math and related subjects, this app combines 1,400 equations and formulas. It can be used in physics, chemistry, science, math, and more. There really is no reason to memorize equations nowadays; instead of writing them down or searching for them every time you need them, Math Ref will keep the formulas you need at your fingertips. The app also includes essential tools such as unit converting, triangle solver, and basic calculators to aid you in doing homework problems.

Periodic Table– This periodic table app includes many illustrations and fun facts intended to infuse fun into periodic table lessons for the young learner. This free app was designed on the blueprint of the highly rated Royal Society of Chemistry Periodic Table website. Periodic Table is useful for students and teachers as well as the average knowledge seeker.

Sugar Shake – Sugar Shake lets students shake and tilt sugar molecules to start chemical reactions. Based on real cell structures, Sugar Shake includes ten proteins that break down sugars in our bodies. By shaking and tilting the matching sugar molecule towards its protein, users set off chemical reactions, avoid obstacles and score points. Students can also examine the structure and function of each molecule from all angles. This is a good app for a quick chemistry or health unit review!

The Chemical Touch – The Chemical Touch is a Periodic Table and Amino Acid Companion that is easily accessible on an iPhone or tablet. Chemistry students can explore elemental properties with a single touch, gaining access to information about atomic mass, density, melting point, boiling point, atomic radius, and electronegativity. Students can select specific trends such as electronegativity to recolor the Periodic Table and view trends and patterns. Each element and amino acid also links directly to its Wikipedia page so students can gather even more information.

Vernier Go Direct® Sensors with Graphical Analysis

4 – Go Direct® sensors collect real-time data from science experiments and lab work and connect directly to student computers or mobile devices. Each of the 40+ types of sensors offered by Vernier are all-in-one style sensors that come with software. Vernier also produces textbooks, with experiments designed to complement their sensors for Chemistry, Physical Science, and middle school science. All purchases include the free app Graphical Analysis 4, which helps students create real-time graphs of their experimental data.

Just Science– With Just science, you’ll be able to understand how the temperature around you has changed since the Industrial Revolution. This app comes with a color-coded map of the world that shows how the Earth’s temperature changed between 1800-2009. Our results are taken from the monthly data of local recording stations that produce a blue, green, and red global visualization of the deviation of the temperature from the historical average.

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High School Science Apps, Tools, and Resources That We Love published first on https://sapsnkra.tumblr.com

[vandanainternationalschool]

Best CBSE School in Dwarka New Delhi

Vandana International School has grown over the years and has proven to be one of the top CBSE International Schools located in the sub-city of Dwarka, New Delhi. The School program has been meticulously designed and developed to cater all-round development of the child.

The School upholds the highest quality standards in education that encourages child to blossom into an active learner, compassionate and critical thinker. It fosters strong parent’s engagement, Parental care and empathy. The school strongly believes that happy children are as important as academically strong children.

21st Century Skills Require 21st Century Learning Opportunities

Learning in the 21st century must reach beyond the classroom walls to prepare students for participation in the ever-evolving global economy. The VIS Campus incorporates the latest in pedagogical best practices. VIS supports student-centered learning with an emphasis on building meaningful relationships. When students develop trusting relationships with teachers, teachers are able to tap into the student’s strengths and take learning to the next level.

School’s commitment to provide students with the skills needed to thrive in the 21st century drives use of smart classrooms. Different educational settings found on campus promote the 4Cs — critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity.

Students collaborate with peers and facilitators. Large, dedicated 3D Science, Maths and English lab invite students to tackle hands-on learning challenges not available in a traditional classroom.

VIS: A long history of Academic excellence:

VIS is one of the Best CBSE School in Dwarka New Delhi for producing exceptionally brilliant CBSE students who have made a mark in universities and job arenas around the world. With years of rich experience in offering the CBSE curriculum, the school has a strong mechanism in place that grooms the graduating students for joining prestigious universities and sought-after courses.

With a team of teachers with expertise in implementing the CBSE curriculum, a dedicated curriculum supervisor and supplementary learning tools, the students of VIS have consistently scored well in the decisive board exams and made us proud by bagging seats in the top universities of the world.

The school has a long list of achievers who have carried the flag of VIS to the renowned universities.

VIS embraces Learning by doing approach:

Experiential Learning or 'Learning through reflection on doing' is being argued by experts as a path forward for students who wish to be all-rounders and apply the acquired knowledge in real-life situations. A school that aims to balance academic excellence with holistic development, VIS uses a very practical and hands-on approach to education.

The school believes that kinesthetic learning, or the type of learning where children engage in physical activities alongside books and examinations, is an active approach as students use five-senses along with their mind in the process of gaining knowledge. This type of learning has a long-lasting effect as students gain deeper knowledge after a series of trial and errors. Apart from this, experiential learning is more engaging as both teachers and students enjoy the lessons and the absorption rate is 70% higher as compared to rote learning.

After all Global citizens of tomorrow need to be adept in multiple skills to successfully connect with a wider world.

The school scores high on parameters such as ‘extra-curricular activities’ and ‘sports’:

We lay emphasis on physical education and physical fitness. Apart from learning the intricacies of various games, sports and physical education, the students develop stamina & endurance that is so essential to be able to get away from a sedentary way of life and develop the spirit of sportsmanship.

The school is equipped with:

Table Tennis tables, Chess and Carrom facilities, A state of the art cricket pitch and covered nets, Basketball court, Taekwondo, Yoga and Karate training.

Research shows that school is a happy place for learners if it has a range of activities to engage the students and make them feel empowered. At VIS, we provide a plethora of learning experiences through which students learn new skills and acquire a confident personality. By proving their mettle in fields beyond academics, the students feel appreciated and encouraged and feel happy.

Techno-Savvy

At VIS, e-learning is accorded top priority. This helps students schooling with us to be better equipped to meet the challenges of modern day living. “Smart Class Boards” have been installed in every class room. The teacher is able to log onto our Resource Centre and access audio visual aids to enhance the class room teaching experiences. Such learning through audio visual aids is better absorbed, since abstract concepts are given particular shapes & colours.

We are continuously exploring innovative ideas and latest technologies to bring to you and your ward a fulfilling experience in education.

‘Campus Care’, a user-friendly Parent Child Portal gives regular online updates to parents about Notices, Alerts, Events, Report Cards, Fee Dues, Attendance and much more. Every child is provided with an ID and password to access the Portal.

School of the future

"Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded." This belief is the basis of the education at VIS which aims to shape students to grow into their own personalities by providing them with maximum exposure in academics and non-academic arenas.

[fairfieldthinkspace]

Meet Fairfield University’s School of Engineering Dean Andres Leonardo Carrano, PhD

Photo: Andres L. Carrano, PhD.

A few weeks into his new role as dean of the School of Engineering, Andres L. Carrano, PhD introduced himself to the Fairfield University community in an interview with Jeannine (Carolan) Graf ’87 of the Marketing & Communications Department. Their conversation covered everything from the new dean’s first impressions of Stag country to how he spends his time when he’s not working in a lab, classroom, or office.

You took on your new role as dean of Fairfield’s School of Engineering in the midst of a pandemic and the same week that Tropical Storm Isaias roared into town – quite a welcome! What was that like?

Indeed, it has been a very interesting experience to say the least – almost surreal in a way. With the ongoing pandemic, the safety our students, faculty, and staff has been my main concern since day one. But having just relocated from Savannah, Georgia, (and having previously lived in Auburn, Alabama) where hurricanes and tornadoes make regular appearances, I found it ironic that one of each kind welcomed me in my first week here at Fairfield. Despite my unusual start, and perhaps because of it, I have received tremendous support and understanding from all units and people across campus and that has made my onboarding that much easier!

Given the current coronavirus-related restrictions on campus, how have you been able to meet and connect with engineering students since the semester began? How are they doing?

This pandemic hit us at a time when videoconferencing technologies are mature enough that we can enjoy some degree of freedom in how we design our interactions. For example, we conducted our first-year convocation and open houses mainly via Zoom. As the Dean’s Office works from several locations in order to reduce staff density, we communicate via Teams and other tools. Within the circumstances, generally speaking, the students are appreciative and grateful for the opportunity to be on campus and have some in-person classes.  

What excites you the most about becoming dean of Fairfield’s School of Engineering at this time? What do you most look forward to in your first year?

I was very attracted to the immense potential of this School, the superb location in the Northeast Corridor, the beautiful campus and facilities, as well as the Jesuit pedagogical approach and values, all of which makes us a very unique program in the country. During the first year, I look forward to spreading the word and increasing awareness so that Fairfield Engineering becomes well-known outside the Northeast. I am also very excited about the launches of our newest master’s programs in cybersecurity, data science, and entrepreneurship & technology (coming soon), as well as our renewed focus on biomedical engineering.

What are the biggest challenges facing the School of Engineering?

Without a doubt, the biggest challenge right now is to conduct our instruction and research activities in a safe manner. Some of the day-to-day activities we always took for granted are our biggest challenges – for example, conducting socially distanced manufacturing lab sessions where instructor proximity is needed for safety reasons.

You received your BS in industrial engineering from Universidad Católica Andres Bello, the oldest, largest Jesuit university in Venezuela. How has your undergraduate Jesuit education prepared you for your current position at Fairfield?

My undergraduate Jesuit education has prepared me not just for my current position but for life. I often mentioned that it took me more than 25 years to connect the dots and realize the profound impact that my Jesuit formation has had on me. Also, a little-known fact is that I am part of a multi-generational, Jesuit-educated family: my father and all my siblings attended and graduated from Jesuit institutions. Now my daughter is also attending one.

With regard to my preparation, I think engineering programs at Jesuit institutions are very special programs. I say this because, in my opinion, the principles of discernment, social justice, and others take a special meaning in our profession. They are also more challenging to incorporate into a very packed, accreditation-constrained, technical curriculum.

Having said that, engineering has had one of the most significant roles in the advancement of human living standards throughout the course of history. From the technologies behind the procurement of clean water from far distances, the power systems that move everything, the electrification of cities, all the way to the ice cube in your drink — that you sip while you open an app on your phone to place a purchase. I firmly believe that graduating engineers with a deep sense and awareness of social and humanitarian issues is paramount to remediating some of them. I have a tremendous amount of faith in these younger generations of engineers who, if equipped with the right tools and armed with the right motivations, will accomplish things we could not even dream of.      

What do you see as the biggest advantages to studying engineering at a university with a liberal humanistic approach to education?

I believe that a solid liberal arts foundation is fundamental for engineers, as it is for most other disciplines. In fact, it pains me to see the trend in some other engineering programs around the country to remove liberal arts content and become much more specialized in a technical discipline. While this may maximize short term proficiency, technologies become obsolete within months (if not sooner) and we cannot anticipate the technical preparation that someone might need to tackle problems 10 or 20 years from now. Rather, we can focus on forming the best professional engineers, who in addition to a solid technical education, possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, are able to solve problems in teams of people from a variety of backgrounds, and have a profound situational awareness and emotional intelligence. Perhaps more importantly, our engineers will be mindful of the larger issues, including social justice, environmental problems, etc. Because of this, our engineers are always poised to become effective leaders everywhere they go. We cannot achieve this unless we have a more holistic approach in the engineering curriculum and that involves a comprehensive liberal arts foundation.

As an industrial/mechanical engineer in an increasingly virtual software-controlled world, how important is hands-on, experiential learning across engineering disciplines?

Experiential learning is crucial in engineering as it has been demonstrated countless times that the longest knowledge retention occurs when performing the activity or, in other words, learning by doing. Furthermore, engineering is based on problem solving and design skills and both are best understood through tactile (in the broadest sense) experiences. At Fairfield Engineering, we pride ourselves on incorporating experiential learning throughout the curriculum through ample laboratory opportunities, hands-on class projects, internship with local industry and other. We also have extracurricular opportunities in which hands-on learning occurs, such as the many clubs (including the Baja racing team, Engineers Without Borders, Biomedical Engineering Society, etc.) international service trips, and our professional development/leadership series. Finally, and because you mentioned computers and software, there are wonderful opportunities to provide experiential learning through these – including digital simulations among others.

Your bio includes an impressive range of engineering scholarship. Can you tell us a bit about any research or other projects you have recently finished or are currently working on?

With my former research group (the 3D Printed Biosurfaces Lab), we just published the results of a study that showed how a very cool 3D-printed complex sphere (that we modeled mathematically to optimize the surface area) could be used as biofilter media to clean wastewater much more efficiently than commercial products. Well, technically speaking, by cleaning wastewater, I mean converting ammonia nitrogen and producing nitrates. It combines many of the basic sciences (biology, chemistry, math) to engineer a better water-processing system – the kind of stuff NASA and the likes might be interested in!      

Beyond professional accomplishments, what does Andres Carrano like to do when not on campus?

On a daily basis, I am pretty much a homebody who likes to spend time with my family. I also have two large dogs who take a good chunk of my time. On the hobby side of things, I like to watch European soccer, eat out at the many wonderful ethnic hole-in-the-wall restaurants in the Bridgeport/Fairfield/New Haven area, and love international travel that takes me off the beaten path.  

[edugenius]

                                     E-LIBRARY & LANGUAGE LAB - Edugenius

The program is about developing, conducting and implementing the E-Library program in schools. The E-Library is a technology-backed library which contains a rich collection of e-books covering popular classics, animated value based stories, audio visual books, encyclopaedias, e-magazines, e-newspapers, curriculum based topics and much more. These E-books are in the form of audio visuals and multimedia stored in digital format and can be easily accessed through computers. This program is designed to provide a modern state-of-the-art digital library with over 2000+ interactive e-books with activities to complement and complete your existing library.

READ MORE...Smart Class Room, 3D Science and Math lab Equipment, Smart Learning India - E-Learning Providers | Edugenius |

[makers-muse]

How can schools integrate STEAM education into their curricula? 

In today’s fast-evolving world, schools are increasingly turning toward STEAM education—an interdisciplinary approach that combines Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics. This shift is about more than just preparing students for future careers; it’s about nurturing critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills that are essential in the 21st century. So, how can schools effectively incorporate STEAM into their existing curricula? Here are some practical strategies that any school can adopt. 

1. Start with Cross-Disciplinary Projects 

STEAM is all about breaking down the traditional silos between subjects. Schools can introduce cross-disciplinary projects where students use multiple skills to solve real-world problems. For example, a project on environmental conservation could involve science (understanding ecosystems), technology (using software for data analysis), and the arts (creating awareness posters or videos). By working on these collaborative projects, students begin to see the connections between subjects and understand how they complement one another. 

2. Leverage Technology and Digital Tools 

Integrating technology isn’t limited to computer labs. Schools can invest in digital tools and platforms that support STEAM learning across all classrooms. From coding software and robotics kits to 3D printing and design tools, technology can empower students to bring their ideas to life. For instance, coding exercises can be incorporated into math classes, and 3D design software can be used in art and engineering tasks. Schools can further enhance this integration by providing teacher training on these technologies. 

3. Encourage Hands-On Learning with Maker Spaces 

Creating a designated space, like a maker lab or innovation hub, allows students to engage in hands-on activities that blend STEAM subjects. Maker spaces are equipped with tools for activities like woodworking, circuitry, and crafting, which can reinforce learning concepts in a physical, engaging way. Here, students can learn by doing, experimenting, and sometimes even failing an essential part of the creative process in STEAM education. 

4. Integrate the Arts for a Well-Rounded Approach 

The arts play a crucial role in fostering creativity and encouraging students to think outside the box. Schools can integrate the arts in various ways, such as by including music, drama, or design elements in science and technology projects. For example, students might use design thinking to create prototypes or work on a digital storytelling project that integrates coding with visual arts. 

5. Engage Students with Real-World Problems 

One of the most effective ways to integrate STEAM education is by focusing on real-world issues that matter to students, such as climate change, health care, or sustainable living. Schools can develop curricula around these themes, encouraging students to investigate, design, and propose solutions. This kind of problem-based learning not only makes STEAM subjects more engaging but also helps students build empathy and a sense of global responsibility. learn more 

6. Build Partnerships with the Community 

Partnerships with local businesses, universities, and organizations can give students exposure to STEAM fields and provide opportunities for mentorship and experiential learning. Schools can invite professionals to talk about their careers, host field trips to local science museums or tech companies, or collaborate on community projects. These interactions give students a sense of the possibilities within STEAM fields and inspire them to pursue their passions. 

7. Offer Professional Development for Teachers 

Teachers play a vital role in implementing STEAM education, so schools should invest in professional development to ensure that educators are well-prepared. This might include workshops on interdisciplinary lesson planning, training on new tech tools, or even partnerships with STEAM-focused educational platforms. When teachers are excited and confident about STEAM, their enthusiasm is likely to transfer to the students. 

8. Adopt Flexible Assessment Methods 

Traditional testing may not always capture the full extent of a student’s learning in STEAM subjects. Schools can adopt alternative assessment methods, like portfolios, project presentations, and peer reviews, which allow students to showcase their understanding in a more holistic way. By focusing on the process as well as the product, schools can better evaluate critical skills like creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. 

Ready to bring STEAM to your school! 

By integrating STEAM education into their curricula, schools prepare students not just for academic success but for a lifetime of innovation and creativity. Whether through hands-on projects, interdisciplinary learning, or community partnerships, there are countless ways for schools to bring STEAM to life in the classroom, helping students build a solid foundation for the future. 

At Makers’ Muse, we offer engaging resources and interactive courses designed to ignite creativity and innovation in students. Start exploring our programs today and give your students the tools to succeed in a tech-driven world! 

[scienceblogtumbler]

Students’ shoebox-sized satellite gets green light for launch

Most graduating seniors expect to write a final thesis, or perhaps co-author a paper or present a poster or talk at an academic conference.

By the time Paul Köttering graduates from the University of California, Berkeley, in 2021, he and his team hope to have launched a satellite.

Despite the shelter-in-place mandate during the coronavirus epidemic — Köttering is spending the remainder of the semester at his parents’ home in London — he and a team of UC Berkeley undergraduates are huddling weekly via Zoom in preparation for the launch next year of a shoebox-sized experiment to test new satellite navigation technology that is based on campus research.

This past February, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration announced that it would cover the costs of the launch — up to $300,000 — through the CubeSat Launch Initiative, which focuses on flying small experiments as auxiliary rocket payloads.

To actually build the satellite, the UC Berkeley team is raising about $15,000 dollars through crowdfunding and the campus’s Big Give campaign, and seeking donations of equipment from numerous manufacturers. They’ve already received a $4,950 grant from the UC Berkeley Student Technology Fund.

“The NASA grant is just for the launch, so we have still got to supply and manufacture the satellite ourselves,” said Kӧttering, a junior majoring in applied mathematics and physics. “Luckily, the cost of CubeSats has dropped significantly over the past three to four years. The communications systems, power systems, control systems — a lot of those are just off-the-shelf, commercial parts, so they are quite cheap. The payload itself is the more expensive item, but again, a lot of that comes from in-kind donations from companies.”

Junior Paul Kӧttering, sheltering-in-place in London. (Photo courtesy of Paul Kӧttering)

Called QubeSat, or quantum CubeSat, the group’s satellite will test a new type of gyroscope based on quantum mechanical interactions in imperfect diamonds. The diamond gyroscope was invented in the UC Berkeley laboratory of physicist Dmitry Budker, a Professor of the Graduate School who is now also at the Helmholtz Institute at Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany.

The student team is part of an undergraduate aerospace club called Space Technologies at Cal (STAC) that has already flown experiments aboard balloons and the International Space Station — an impressive record for a group that started only four years ago. Some of the group’s graduates have gone on to work for SpaceX, Boeing and other aerospace companies.

Boasting about 65 members from a range of majors, including physics, math, engineering, chemistry and environmental sciences, they’re currently working on four projects they hope will push innovative new space technologies.

“UC Berkeley doesn’t have an aerospace program, and it is great that there are students that are that motivated,” said David Sundkvist, a researcher at UC Berkeley’s Space Sciences Laboratory (SSL) who is one of the group’s mentors. “Their project definitely was a winner because it is interesting, and it also has synergy with the whole campus in that it comes from Berkeley research. I think that made it possible for them to win this slot on the launch manifest, definitely.”

The QubeSat team plans to use some of the unique facilities available at SSL, including the vacuum chambers needed to test the spaceworthiness of the satellite.

The CURIE mission consists of two CubeSats separated by a few kilometers and equipped with large antennas to measure radio emissions from coronal mass ejections. Using interferometry, UC Berkeley space scientist David Sundkvist hopes to pinpoint where the emissions come from. (Graphic courtesy of David Sundkvist)

Sundkvist is leading his own CubeSat project, the CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment (CURIE), which also received good news in February: It, too, is guaranteed a launch slot in the next few years, with similar funding from NASA. The CURIE — with a budget of $3.2 million, in addition to the launch subsidy — involves two identical satellites that will try for the first time to do radio interferometry in space. Interferometry, which integrates data from two separate radio antennas — for CURIE, the satellite receivers will be a couple of kilometers apart in Earth’s orbit — should more precisely pinpoint and track radio emissions from huge solar eruptions, called coronal mass ejections, that hurtle toward Earth and can disrupt communications satellites or even endanger astronauts in space.

Diamonds are for navigation

Kӧttering got involved in the CubeSat project after hearing about the great experiences of other STAC members, including sophomore Vidish Gupta, who, as a freshman, worked alongside seniors to design an experiment that flew a year ago on the Blue Origin rocket to the edge of space and back. During the trip, the automated experiment recorded roundworms — C. elegans, commonly found in biology labs — as they revived under little to no gravity, or microgravity. The team is still analyzing those results.

The QubeSat team meets weekly via Zoom to discuss the satellite design and prepare to begin building it for a 2021 launch. Left to right, starting at the top row, are Justin Chen, Vidish Gupta, Edmund Chen, Drake Lin, Max Burns, Paul Köttering, Yuki Ito, Saisaran Kidambi, Bianca Monique Luansing, Bhavesh Kalisetti, Megan Yu, Joon Park and Sally Peng. Team member Krishnakumar Bhattaram is not pictured. (Image courtesy of Vidish Gupta)

Before applying for the NASA funds, that 15-member CubeSat team explored various possible experiments — it was looking for something small, cheap, but innovative — before settling a year ago on its final proposal: to test a quantum gyroscope.

“The small-satellite community is becoming very, very large and keeps CubeSats very popular,” said Gupta, the project lead who is majoring in electrical engineering and computer sciences and will be building electronics for QubeSat. “We saw there were a couple of different technologies that are still kind of holding this back, and one of the big ones was a gyroscope technology for controlling the satellite, since you need to know where you are and the direction you’re going.”

To make the sensors, synthetic diamonds are blasted with nitrogen, some of which kick out carbon atoms and take their places, creating nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers that have weird properties. One of these properties, studied by Budker’s group for more than 10 years, is that the NV centers’ atomic spins are very sensitive to magnetic fields. Magnetometers based on NV diamonds have already been launched to measure small changes in Earth’s magnetic field.

The NV-diamond, a quantum gyroscope, will sit in the middle of the magnetic coils, which will be encased in a box that blocks outside magnetic fields, which would interfere with the measurements. (Diagram by STAC team)

The QubeSat team plans to employ another quantum characteristic of NV centers: The spins of the nitrogen atoms precess or wobble in a magnetic field, like the wobble of a spinning top, and the frequency of that precession changes with the atoms’ orientation. The team’s experiment will incorporate a tiny, solid-state laser to excite the NV centers, a radio frequency generator to ping the atoms and a photodiode to detect the light they emit. The intensity of the emitted light provides a measure of the 3D orientation of the spacecraft.

“In comparison to more traditional onboard micromechanical gyroscopes, quantum gyroscopes provide improved resolution, improved drift stability and increased temperature operational range,” Kӧttering said. “QubeSat’s upcoming mission will allow us to evaluate the effect of the harsh space environment — including extreme temperatures, radiation and magnetic field variation — that could affect the gyroscopes’ performance in small-scale spaceflight.”

One of Budker’s former postdoctoral fellows, Andrey Jarmola, who is advising the QubeSat team, points out that the team’s attempt to demonstrate the diamond gyroscope in a satellite is ambitious. He and his colleagues are only now showing that the diamond gyroscope — what he called a nuclear magnetic resonance gyroscope — works in the lab.

But the stability and sensitivity of diamond gyroscopes promise to be better than those of the standard MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) gyroscopes in our cellphones, automobile airbag sensors and image stabilizers in cameras. And unlike other sensitive gyroscopes, diamond gyroscopes can be miniaturized and use less power.

“The number of applications of gyroscopes is just enormous. They are used in all mobile devices and for navigation for both the military and industry. It is a huge market,” Jarmola said, noting that he has invited some of the team members to work on the project in the lab in UC Berkeley’s physics department. “The students are very enthusiastic, and I really like consulting them and the idea of working with them in the future.”

Enthusiasm, dedication and ambition are hallmarks of the QubeSat team and the other STAC teams, which are working on high altitude balloon, microgravity and artificial intelligence lunar rover experiments.

Sophomore Vidish Gupta working on the design for QubeSat’s main flight computer at his home in Los Angeles. (Photo courtesy of Vidish Gupta)

“The reason why STAC exists is because there is no aerospace department on campus,” said Kӧttering, who is among many students and faculty lobbying UC Berkeley to create such a department. “There is no major or minor, so we try and act as a community in a place where all the students interested in aerospace can come, get involved, actually get hands on project experience, get their project hopefully flown or launched and also really develop those skills.”

And this group on campus is passionate about making space accessible to all — it’s the goal of the growing NewSpace movement — including future undergraduates in fields such as science, technology, math and engineering (STEM).

“QubeSat’s secondary goal is to increase the accessibility of space and to inspire STEM education. The QubeSat team and the larger STAC community hope to introduce high school and college students to our work though community outreach in the East Bay, giving them the support and inspiration to pursue microsatellite projects and careers in the burgeoning NewSpace era,” Kӧttering said.

source https://scienceblog.com/515945/students-shoebox-sized-satellite-gets-green-light-for-launch/

[corpasa]

10 Education Trends that will Shape the 2019-2020 Academic Year

The following is a guest post by Linda Cartwright, an online college-level English and creative writing teacher. If you would like to submit a guest post, please contact us. 

The trends shaping the next academic year are nothing new – we’ve heard about some of them for years. Yet now they are becoming a reality, manifesting themselves in classrooms rather than in catchy headlines. What benefits and challenges will they bring into yours?

The Changing Role of a Teacher

A teacher is shifting from someone who knows things to someone who is a newbie, like the rest of the class. The difference is, she has extensive experience at being a newbie and that’s something she is here to share – to model handling the situation of uncertainty or failure, model problem-solving, life-long learning and inquisitive curiosity. Essentially, to equip students with skills they need to get to knowledge independently.

The teacher of the 21st century is in the classroom to nurture learners, not to feed data. That’s the crux of the student-centered approach – not one-on-one classes, or more time spent individually coaching every student. The role of the teacher in 2019 is guiding their class through activities and sharing in the wonder of discovery.

Of course, monitoring the personal progress of the students and individually helping those who experience difficulties is important. However, without shifting the perspective first, it’s not realistic, especially with schools that cannot afford smaller classes or more space for teacher’s plan time. Therefore, shifting the perspective is the key – scaling up (or rather down in this case) is the next step.

Artificial Intelligence Learning

If a teacher is there to inspire and facilitate, then AI is taking up the role of personalized tutoring, where skills must be trained. Digital learning environments and intelligent tutoring system offer amazing flexibility at no time costs, which makes an efficient support system to K12 teachers.

Language learning apps like Duolingo or writing tools like No Red Ink demonstrate how AI-powered systems provide individual revisions plan and interest-based learning. Other tools like that are available for various subjects. AI’s analyzing capacity enable real-time feedback and continual targeted practice. Content analysis is another apt ability of AI and a helpful tool in assessing the individual progress of the student. It allows teachers to understand students’ needs better and, being equipped with more information – to tailor better lesson plans.

AI is an ultimate teacher’s assistant that frees the teacher of the most time-consuming and monotonous tasks, such as tests and checking papers for plagiarism, leaving more place to utilize teacher’s human-specific skills like emotional intelligence and creativity.

AI application in education is still in its early stages, but its potential must not be overlooked. It is expected that the use of AI in the US classrooms will increase by 47.5% in the next three years.

Augmented Reality Training

Augmented reality is an illustrious example of an old saying – a picture is worth a thousand words. However, how is AR better than VR or just a 3D image on a screen?

AR expands our physical reality. AR tools are capable of projecting something abstract or hard to grasp from a flat diagram and making it real – be it a 3D model of the Solar system, a geometric shape complete with formulas and explanations, or a scheme of the human nervous system. However, in AR those projections are tied to physical objects – something solid that students can interact with, activating motor centers in their brains. This creates engaging, immersive experiences that are more likely to stay in their memory. Here are some videos that show how AR can be used in science and physical education.

On the other hand, AR can be used not only to bring flat images to life but also to substitute real-life activities tied to higher risk and potential danger – some lab experiments and demonstrations can only be conceivable in the school setting as AR simulations.

Cultivation of Empathy

Of course, managing emotions, self-regulation, resilience and determination may seem the most relevant aspects of emotional intelligence in education, but they are not the ones that take center stage in 2019. Empathy and compassion for others, communications skills, and relationships with classmates steal the limelight. Why?

Many teachers will agree that poor behavior in the classroom is a big problem. However, building a positive classroom culture is impossible without empathy. Empathy is necessary for building trust and friendship among students as well as for improving student-teacher relationships.

Moreover, by creating a safe and friendly environment in the classroom we facilitate group work and engagement when a child doesn’t have second thoughts about raising a hand to ask a question or make a suggestion. Also, schools that incorporate empathy into the learning process have higher achieving students.

There are various resources and lessons plans online that will help to incorporate empathy into your curriculum. However, ultimately, teaching empathy is leading your students by example. It’s up to you to notice and reject stereotypes, respect and value differences of your students, urge them to widen their circle of concern and, of course, manage your own difficult feelings.

Hybrid Homeschooling

Homeschoolers can attend self-directed learning centers for certain subjects that their parents don’t feel confident enough teaching. Instead of having gaps in their knowledge and getting paper help on a subject they are undertrained in, they can catch up and rectify the situation in a hybrid school.

This way students have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the school setting, socialize with peers, and choose what and how they will learn.

Overall this system allows more flexibility with scheduling for both students and teachers. One of my closest friends used to teach English and Literature in K12 but had to step down for a while to care for her first child. Now she continues her work as an English and Literature teacher in a hybrid school. This way she has smaller classes, more motivated and engaged students, and more time to spend with her daughter. She also does private tutoring in-home so her schedule is quite flexible, which suits her lifestyle at the moment perfectly.

This trend will probably influence the number of parents who choose to homeschool. According to EdChoice’s 2017 Schooling in America survey, while only 3% of parents homeschool their children, 7% more would homeschool if they could. The hybrid option makes it possible.

Genius Hour

Students are choosing what they want to learn during a Genius Hour, which gives them some room for agency in the otherwise structured and prescribed curriculum. The self-directed and self-paced mode of learning promotes autonomy, inquiry, and creativity. There are only two requirements: genius hour must be about student’s passion and it must have some purpose – the essential question driving the project.

Helping students to discover their passions and find the purpose is the task for you as a teacher, of course. While some students will thrive unencumbered with limitations, others will need some structure and coaching provided by you.

Take time to learn more about them, observe. Something that comes easily to them or something they spend much time on isn’t necessarily something they are intrinsically motivated in. A colleague of mine who teaches Math once told me about a brilliant student who was way ahead of the curriculum and solved all math problems with ease and in unconventional ways. However, when she approached him and suggested he’d join a math hobby group, the child winced: “More Math?”

It turned out he didn’t like Math at all! His parents encouraged and trained him at home because they had plans for his future education and career. The boy was much more interested in nature, and the highlight of the day for him was caring for his pet turtle.

Personalized Learning

Personalized learning is often confused with the individualized approach to teaching. It has always been necessary to take into account individual strengths and struggles of each student, so why is personalized learning a new trend at all? The answer is that personalized learning is much more holistic. While individualized approach made allowances for differences between students, it was still a standard-based education. That is, however flexible the learning models, the result had to be the same – a student competent in the approved content.

Meanwhile, in personalized learning, everything, including content, pacing, sequence, and technology must be adjusted to suit each student’s interests, curiosity, and learning purpose. The result of such education should be a student that is competent in the process of learning rather than in prescribed content. This makes perfect sense in our information-rich world, where everything is searchable but you must have a clear idea of what you are looking for and why you need it.

Personalized learning sounds great, but isn’t it beyond the reach of a single teacher who has a whole class of unique students on her hands? That’s where all the AI tools, Genius Hours and hybrid homeschooling come to the rescue, broadening the possibilities for us all.

Blended Learning

Blended learning is more than iPads in the classroom and animated apps to keep tech-savvy students stimulated and interested. It is a mode of learning that is the only answer if we want to keep all the benefits of face-to-face learning with the flexibility of personalized learning.

Blended learning allows for aligning many contradicting schedules, matching varying paces of different students and a variety of content types. It also implies individual preparation for in-class activity and student collaboration outside the classroom. With various online spaces, collaboration platforms, communities, and chat rooms it’s a second (or even first!) nature for today’s school-age children.

Still, it is crucial that the teacher provides instructions and feedback on navigating through these activities. The blended learning approach allows enhances personalized learning, but it benefits from structure, encouragement, and guidance that only a face-to-face communication with a teacher or mentor can provide.

Gamification of Education

Gamification has been a huge buzzword for years now, but the possibilities of this approach are often dismissed as shallow because they are largely misunderstood. Sprinkling games here and there to boost engagement or reward students for being patient is not what gamification is about.

Gamification requires a fundamental change in our approach to learning. It’s changing education at its core – designing it anew according to game design principles. We must remember that learning is inherently fun – human brains are wired to respond positively to discovery, pattern-recognition, risk, role play. Learning becomes boring when it stops being play, fun, and discovery-driven and becomes something that is done to students.

Humans play games not only when they are young but during their entire lives. The fundamental similarities of learning and games are exploration, pattern-recognition, discovery, and sense of progress. Gamified educations is nothing but learning that reclaimed all those things. It can happen without the use of digital tools entirely. Competitiveness, cooperation, risk-taking, trade-off choices, immediate feedback, the progress that is a reward in itself, and joy in the process of learning are the highlight of properly gamified learning. Students find satisfaction in leveling-up their knowledge instead of “earning” a grade. They learn because it is a fun thing to do – not to arrive at the point where they know this and that. Just like we play to have fun – not to finish the game as quickly as possible or collect an impressive score.

Coding in Humanities

Applied linguistics was dabbing into coding since the first computers were invented. After all, code is just another language and you can even see a loose correlation between the syntax structure of a sentence and a line of code. In fact, what makes a linguistics specialist different from any other person is the fact that a linguist sees a natural language as a code and not simply something we all use and that happens naturally.

More companies began to see the need in well-rounded specialists – someone who not only codes but understands how humans interact with technology, what problems it should solve and what real-world concerns should be considered. Moreover, the key competencies that make one good at coding are critical thinking and creative problem-solving – something humanity graduates are famous for. The stereotype that you need a Computer Science degree and a life-long love for Math to code is wearing off.

What does that mean for a teacher? The ability to code is a new literacy, therefore you will do better if you acquire some basic coding skills. Even an amateurish code will make it possible to handle your research data much faster. You will be able to tailor apps for your classes or elicit data from student questionnaires and see correlations that would otherwise go unnoticed, thus gaining valuable insights into ways to improve your work as a teacher. Moreover, you will be able to integrate coding into your curriculum and show your students how coding can be used even if they chose literature as their primary field of interest.

Here you can find a selection of free coding games, which is very apt given the blended learning and gamification trends going on. Enjoy them yourself or share with your class – don’t be afraid of being newbies together!

Author’s Bio: Linda Cartwright is a believer in life-long learning and an ambassador of technology in K12 and Higher Ed. She teaches college-level English and creative writing online and is working on her first book. Find her on Twitter

Reference herein to any specific commercial products, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, does not constitute or imply an endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by Touro College.

The post 10 Education Trends that will Shape the 2019-2020 Academic Year appeared first on Online Education Blog of Touro College.

10 Education Trends that will Shape the 2019-2020 Academic Year published first on https://medium.com/@DLBusinessNow

[zipgrowth]

What Is Missing From Our Curricula?

As Atul Gawande, a surgeon and New Yorker writer, walked by his hospital’s newest construction project, he wondered how something so large and complex could possibly be managed. He had once constructed a bookcase that instantly fell apart. If a structurally sound bookshelf already proved hard to build, how can one ever manage the construction of a modern high-rise building with its intricate and interlocking web of requirements for structural support, safety, disaster preparation and project management, to name only a few of the complexities?

The answer, as he explains in “The Checklist Manifesto,” is a multidisciplinary profession known as structural engineering. The structural engineer in charge of construction for Gawande’s hospital shared with him that he has to factor cost, esthetics, physics, and even organizational behavior into his planning. He had to be ready to help resolve unexpected problems, and he had to be sure that his solutions wouldn’t create new problems. Where and how do young people learn these skills?

Truly rare are those careers where employees advance based on their ability to regularly answer multiple-choice questions correctly!

Learning by doing has been a thread in U.S. schooling for young children since John Dewey’s time. But for teens, and even most younger children, “seat time” is literally the customary unit and method of learning. The management of ultra-complex projects is not learned through sitting down in class for a specific amount of time, and is one of many things under-emphasized in most school curricula.

Many of these skills naturally appear in career and technical education (CTE) classes such as 3D design, carpentry, game design, or extracurricular activities such as theater, journalism, and through internships. But how can we integrate more of these skills into core academic classes such as English, algebra, physics and social studies? One approach is to incorporate more project-based learning and real-world connections into classrooms. The Buck Institute for Education, for example, has been supporting project based-learning across schools and organizations for 20 years.

Some organizations, including JFF, are working with schools to more explicitly illuminate and strengthen connections between school and work. We identified several dozen of these organizations in the recent JFF Work-Based Learning Scan, which included an examination of the landscape of tech-based programs and tools that offer opportunities for students to experience virtual workplaces and have access to the kinds of skills they would learn on the job.

For example, Nepris, a Houston-based company, connects professionals in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) fields to classrooms to give lessons related to their jobs. An ornithologist or an engineer, for instance, might use a videoconference to help teach a math lesson. Students can also take virtual field trips to learn about professional work settings like car factories, blood labs, or tech startups. LifeJourney is another organization that provides real-world examples of STEAM professionals sharing how their course of study equipped them with the skills they need for their current careers.

While our school districts tout a focus on college and career readiness, most educators believe there is a meaningful distinction between CTE and college preparatory education. Reinforcing that distinction, however, divides and impoverishes both.

Work-based learning can be a valuable solution to bridge this divide and enrich student learning. At its best, work-based learning integrates academics with real-world application of knowledge and skills to provide paths to educational and career advancement, while also building students’ professional networks and employers’ talent pipelines. This approach holds especially great promise for low-income and lower-skilled youth and adults, who all too often lack equitable access to high-quality work-based learning experiences that can serve as stepping stones to increased economic opportunities.

...most educators believe there is a meaningful distinction between CTE and college preparatory education. Reinforcing that distinction, however, divides and impoverishes both.

While the best way to learn how to be a structural engineer is interning or apprenticing in a workplace, at this juncture the demand for workplace experiences far exceeds capacity to provide them in real time for high school students. Yet the startup space is exploding with innovative solutions that might expand access to work-based learning programs. To support this momentum, JFFLabs, the innovation engine of JFF, is accepting applications for its Work-Based Learning Accelerator through September 21, 2018, with the aim of helping these companies grow and succeed.

It’s also important to note that we need to broaden our definition of success beyond purely academic measures and contextualize work-based learning within adolescent and adult development. Work creates the opportunity to increase a sense of belonging and purpose, as well as develop confidence in one’s identity—all important aspects of healthy human development. Self-direction is also important for general well-being.

As we broaden our definition of success, we simultaneously need to design innovative assessments that capture more than academic outcomes and which realistically match real-world challenges. Traditional high-stakes testing does not capture a student’s ability to handle complex projects such as managing a construction site, or even putting together a small robot.

These are better ways to demonstrate capabilities than transcripts filled with colorless, contextless grades. Truly rare are those careers where employees advance based on their ability to regularly answer multiple-choice questions correctly!

What Is Missing From Our Curricula? published first on https://medium.com/@GetNewDLBusiness