Multi-disciplinary programs unique unto themselves, making them all the more exciting and engaging for participants and Instructors alike. Some weeks in these programs may more science heavy, while others will be more crafty – but all are full of exploration and inquiry.
Instructors should get to know their students and use the lessons that are best suited to the energy and interests of the group.
Remember: In any Explore It! program, it is important that the Instructor come prepared, having reviewed any relevant information and instructions prior to the lesson and understanding the experiment fully. Sometimes – it may be helpful to arrive early and try/test the activity yourself. Also, where crafts are involved, it’s important to note that the process and product hold equal importance. Children should be actively learning about the skill or technique that is being taught as well as engaging in the peer-to-peer support that is inherent in a crafting community. Instructors should take the time to explain that any craft or skill demands patience and positivity while we learn.
If you have any concerns or questions about what quality means in this program, please discuss with your Senior Instructor or email Liz or Randy to confirm.
All multi-disciplinary programs should actively engage through the STEAM method.
STEAM is an approach incorporating Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as access points for guiding student inquiry. In an effort to provide quality programming, we want to ensure that our lessons carefully and thoughtfully incorporate the core components of the STEAM philosophy:
- STEAM experiences involve two or more standards from Science, Technology, Engineering, Math and the Arts to be taught in and through each other,
- Inquiry, collaboration, and an emphasis on process-based learning are at the heart of the approach,
- Utilizing and leveraging the integrity of the arts themselves is essential.
Students and teachers engaged in STEAM understand that we are always learning, always growing and always experimenting.
Also Called: Bright Ideas Studio and CurioLab
Also Called: CurioLab or Little Explorers or Maker Lab for Kinders