Putting the T & E in STEM

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Science, in its most authentic form, is simply the practice of discovery. Though that practice of discovery has remained relatively constant over centuries, its tools have evolved significantly. With the help of technology, Briana has created progressive classrooms, allowing students to learn science in multiple modalities.

      In Briana’s classes, student biologists have used Merge Edu’s augmented reality cubes to dissect frogs. Students have learned graphic design as marketing agents, creating wrappers for alkaline water and protein bars. Students have become computer scientists as they use TinkerCad to build 3D model buildings and wire together arduino microcontrollers. Briana’s approach goes beyond simply teaching science concepts as I desire to instill  a sense of responsibility and compassion in students. In her classroom, not only have students gained current skills; they also were challenged with current–and relevant– problems to solve. Students built model solar buildings and vehicles (post office trucks, buses, trollies), after debating how to most effectively decrease carbon emissions and public spending.  

 Briana firmly believe a curriculum, which leverages technology to address real-world issues, transforms students into thoughtful, engaged citizens—giving them both academic success and inspiration to become agents of social justice.